Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was one of jazz's greatest innovators. Join Bill Gutman as he explores the fascinating life of this legend from his birth at the turn of the century to his death at the age of seventy-five. Interviewing Duke's friends, fans and fellow musicians, Gutman documents the progress of a man who dedicated his life to crafting the ever-changing sound of jazz. Gutman plunges into the history of jazz from its origin in the black America honky-tonk sounds of the Ragtime Era to the serious form enjoyed by those of every age, color, and musical taste. Jazz has evolved through the years to become one of the most popular forms of music with Duke Ellington as chief composer, artist and perfomer. Gutman's account of Ellington's life as it parallels the history of jazz provides a fascinating history for both jazz veterans and those new to the art form.