Duke Ellington - Bio, Age, Chinese Zodiac Sign & Timeline
| Born | April 30, 1899 |
|---|---|
| Age | |
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C., United States |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Chinese Zodiac | Pig |
| Generation | Lost Generation |
| Known For | Pioneering jazz music as a composer, pianist, and bandleader, including works such as "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)", "Mood Indigo", and "Sophisticated Lady". |
Intro
Duke Ellington was an influential American composer, pianist, and jazz orchestra leader. Over a career spanning more than fifty years, Ellington shaped the sound of jazz and American popular music, composing thousands of pieces and earning widespread acclaim for his innovation and artistry.
Early Life & Background
Duke Ellington was born on April 29, 1899, in Washington, D.C., to James Edward Ellington and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. He grew up in a middle-class African American family that encouraged his interests in the fine arts. Ellington began taking piano lessons at the age of seven and showed a strong interest in visual art before focusing on music.
Career Highlights
- Formed his first band, The Washingtonians, in the early 1920s and became a fixture at New York's Cotton Club.
- Published hundreds of jazz compositions, including standards such as "Mood Indigo", "Take the 'A' Train", and "In a Sentimental Mood".
- Awarded 13 Grammy Awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.
- Continued performing and recording until his death in 1974.
Trivia
- Ellington referred to his music as 'American Music' rather than jazz.
- He was posthumously awarded a special Pulitzer Prize in 1999 for his contribution to music.
- Ellington composed music for film, television, and even ballet.
FAQs
People also ask
How old is Duke Ellington?
Duke Ellington is years old.
When was Duke Ellington born?
Duke Ellington was born the 30 April 1899.
Where is Duke Ellington from?
Washington, D.C., United States.
On His Birth-Day
About April 30th, 1899, in brief:
- Day of the week: April 30th, 1899 was a Sunday
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus (in western zodiac), Pig (in Chinese zodiac)
- Moon Phase: Waning gibbous