The Radio Years 1940-45

Down the years, from the 1920s to the 1970s, the music of Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington dominated the world of jazz and his orchestra interpreted his glorious works with intensity and passion. The Duke Ellington Orchestra of 1940-1942 was one of the truly great bands with a library of arrangements penned by the Duke that were quite remarkable in terms of originality and musical concept. This disc contains two complete broadcasts originating from New York City. The songs and the arrangements so lovingly crafted by a pure genius will live on far into the 21^st century. This splendid CD is but a small reminder of his magnificent orchestra and his huge talent as a musician.