They Called Him Duke; His Mother Called Him Edward

Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington is a cultural giant and a musical pioneer who passed away 50 years ago in 1974. Yet his influence remains pervasive, fresh and ceaselessly modern. But why, and how? How many appreciate that he not only created the music that defined (and even named) the Swing era, but that he elevated Black American music to the level of high art without sacrificing its roots? How many understand that he created a career formula for artistic and economic freedom, or that behind his tailored suits and sophistication, he was true revolutionary, using music to push for social justice and equality? In an era when being a musician was one of the few ways an African American artist could achieve self-determination, Ellington’s entire career was a struggle for civil rights and personal respect. With a generous offering of music, videos and images, this lecture by historian and journalist Ashley Kahn will both examine and question Ellington's legend, to truly grasp the enduring stature of Edward "Duke" Ellington.

This event is sponsored and part of the programming for PDX Jazz.

Learn more about the Jazz Program at Portland State University's School of Music & Theater.