Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was an American composer, pianist, and leader of a jazz orchestra from 1923 through the rest of his life. Born in Washington, D.C., Ellington was based in New York City from the mid-1920s and gained a national profile through his orchestra's appearances at the Cotton Club in Harlem.
Known For: Acting
Birthday: 1899-04-29
Place of Birth: Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Also Known As: Edward Kennedy Ellington, Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington