"Based on lengthy interviews with Ellington's bandmates, family, and friends, Duke Ellington and His World offers a new look at this legendary composer. The first biography of the composer written by a fellow musician and African-American, the book traces Ellington's life and career in terms of the social, cultural, political, and economic realities of his times.

Born the grandson of slaves, Ellington earned worldwide fame and praise from musicians of every musical background, becoming a spokesperson not only for his music but also for his people."--BOOK JACKET.