Take The A TrainDuke Ellington1rank/position

Duke Ellington, “Take the A Train”

The piece known in Japan by the extremely famous title “A Ressha de Ikō” is, in fact, “Take the ‘A’ Train,” one of the quintessential jazz standards and the theme song of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, which sparked the prewar swing boom with its overwhelming performances and produced many standards.

While Duke himself left behind numerous masterpieces as a composer, “Take the ‘A’ Train” was actually written at his request by Billy Strayhorn, the orchestra’s pianist.

It was premiered by the band in 1941, released on record, and became a major hit.

The “A Train” refers to New York City’s A subway line—that is, the subway—and perhaps the swinging rhythm and rolling piano tone led some listeners to picture a powerful train running under a blue sky.

In Japan, many singers and ensembles have covered the song; among the famous versions, Hibari Misora sang a rendition with Japanese lyrics that was also released as a single, and Japan’s renowned big band Nobuo Hara and His Sharps & Flats likewise featured the number.

In a Sentimental MoodDuke Ellington & John Coltrane2rank/position

In a Sentimental Mood

A dream collaboration by two giants of the jazz world: pianist Duke Ellington and saxophonist John Coltrane.

This work carries a deeply romantic theme, portraying the happiness of being embraced by a loved one and how that warmth heals past loneliness.

Ellington’s sophisticated piano melts beautifully into Coltrane’s astonishingly gentle and mellifluous tenor saxophone—truly exquisite.

This version was recorded in September 1962 for the historic masterpiece “Duke Ellington & John Coltrane,” and it also appeared on the soundtrack of the 2005 film “Prime.” It’s a piece perfectly crafted for an autumn night of reflection, ideal for listening in a slightly sentimental mood.

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)Louis Armstrong & Duke Ellington3rank/position

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) (1990 Remaster)

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing), released in 1931 by jazz legend Duke Ellington, received the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2008.

Known as a classic of swing jazz, it has been covered by numerous famous artists, including Nina Simone and Louis Armstrong.

This time, we’ve highlighted versions by Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong.

Mood IndigoDuke Ellington & His orchestra4rank/position

Duke Ellington – Mood Indigo

It seems that the piece became titled “Mood Indigo” when lyrics were added.

The performance is by the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

Clarinet: Mr.

Russell Procope; Trombone: Mr.

Lawrence Brown; Bass clarinet: Mr.

Harry Carney.

C Jam BluesDuke Ellington5rank/position

How to play 07 C Jam Blues #CJamBlues: C Jam Blues

“C Jam Blues,” released in 1942 by Duke Ellington, one of the most iconic jazz pianists and composers of the 20th century, is an ideal practice piece for jazz beginners.

Despite its very simple structure, it fully conveys the charm of jazz.

In particular, its 12-bar blues form is perfect for learning the basics of jazz theory and helps beginners grasp the fundamentals of improvisation.

Among Duke Ellington’s extensive repertoire, this piece is especially approachable and is one that beginners can confidently play in jam sessions.

Additionally, the simple lyrics added in the 1950s further enhance the live energy and fun of jazz.

Future jazz players, why not use this tune to build a solid foundation from the ground up?

CaravanDuke Ellington6rank/position

Caravan (Remastered)

Released in the United States in 2014, the film Whiplash won three Academy Awards.

In this movie, which depicts the relationship between a young aspiring jazz drummer and his tyrannical instructor, the climactic piece is Caravan.

Not only the performance used in the film, but the piece itself is commonly started with a drum solo, allowing listeners to hear a variety of drum intros depending on the performer’s interpretation.

Many musicians have left outstanding recordings, so it might be fun to compare different versions.

I Got It Bad And That Ain’t GoodDuke Ellington7rank/position

Duke Ellington – I Got It Bad And That Ain’t Good

A pop and jazz standard created in 1941 by Duke Ellington and Paul Francis Webster.

It features vocals by Ivie Anderson and the legendary saxophonist Johnny Hodges.

The song has been covered by many artists.