Tag Archive for 'Duke Ellington'

Duke Ellington – “Tiger Rag”

Published on June 28, 2010 in Big Band/Swing, Orchestral Jazz/Blues and Public Domain MP3s. 0 Comments Tags: , , , .

Duke Ellington – “Tiger Rag” (mp3)

In 1899 Duke Ellington was born to a nurturing middle-class African American family in Washington. Ellington picked up his first piano as a teenager. As he played the piano, young and charismatic Ellington never would have thought he would grow up to become one of the most influential musicians in America. “Tiger Rag” shows off Duke’s commanding skills as a band leader. Enjoy!

Duke Ellington – “Choo Choo” mp3

Published on September 8, 2009 in Big Band/Swing, Orchestral Jazz/Blues and Public Domain MP3s. 0 Comments Tags: , .

No other band has so singularly possessed more charm and sophistication than Duke Ellington and The Washingtonians. “Choo Choo” always paints  my imagination with images of buttoned up musicians riding in the luxury car headed to a gig in The Big Apple. What I wouldn’t give to be riding the rails with that band. Duke and his band remain to this day, the touchstone of class.

Duke Ellington – “Choo Choo” mp3

Duke Ellington – “Flaming Youth” (mp3)

Published on August 29, 2009 in Big Band/Swing, Orchestral Jazz/Blues and Public Domain MP3s. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

Duke Ellington – “Flaming Youth” (mp3)

Although a gifted piano player, Duke Ellington’s true musical calling was as a composer and band leader. “Flaming Youth” is a playful tune that lights up the night time sidewalk with a swinging beat and mysterious horns.