As the 1940’s dawned, it seemed as though the world had gone mad. Good news was scarce, and yet somehow, Duke Ellington’s good fortune not only sustained itself but reached unimaginable new heights.

He was now represented by the William Morris Agency, the largest and most prestigious organization of its kind in the world. He also found a sympathetic, kindhearted artist named Billy Strayhorn who could review and advise him on his manuscripts, and write a few amazing songs on his own, and last but not least, he added two new members to his band that raised the quality of their already phenomenal performance level. This show captures the aural sound of all that good luck descending on Ellington.

Featured tracks include:

Conga Brava

Concerto for Cootie

Cotton Tail

Don’t Get Around Much Anymore

Dusk

Bojangles

Blue Goose

Harlem Air Shaft

At a Dixie Roadside Diner

All Too Soon

Rumpus in Richmond

Sepia Panorama