A brief recounting of the career of this jazz musician and composer who, along with his orchestra, created music that was beyond category.

"A pivotal fixture of the Harlem Renaissance, Duke Ellington was the bandleader of the historic Cotton Club and a master composer -- writing close to 3,000 songs in his lifetime and capturing the spirit of the Black experience in the Unites States. Over a 50-year career, Ellington became one of the biggest names in jazz as we know it"--

Profiles eight of the greatest jazz artists. Learn how these musicians got started and what gifts they brought to the world of music.

Examines the life and career of the jazz composer, bandleader, and pianist.