Happy Birthday, Duke Ellington!

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born on August 29, 1899. By the 1920s he was an accomplished composer, and by the 1930s he was an accomplished band-leader. He called his music "American Music," instead of jazz, and for his entire life he refused to be categorized.

If you have not heard any Duke Ellington music, you owe it to yourself to go to the local library or music store and get your hands on something. I can't begin to explain how great he was; you will have to hear him for yourself. You will not be disappointed.

Happy Birthday, Duke Ellington!