We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Billy Strayhorn - Take The "A" Train
Why is "Take The 'A' Train" considered Duke Ellington's signature tune despite being composed by Billy Strayhorn? Learn!
Duke Ellington's "Take the 'A' Train" is a classic jazz composition, and here are some interesting facts about it:
Composer and Arranger: "Take the 'A' Train" was composed by Billy Strayhorn, one of Duke Ellington's closest collaborators. Strayhorn was an essential part of Ellington's band, contributing many of the orchestra's most famous compositions.
Inspiration: The title "Take the 'A' Train" refers to the A subway line in New York City. Strayhorn wrote the song as a tribute to the subway route that connected Harlem, where Ellington lived, to the Cotton Club in midtown Manhattan, where Ellington's band often performed.
Debut: The song made its debut with Duke Ellington's orchestra in 1941 and quickly became one of their signature pieces. It was a significant departure from some of Ellington's earlier work and marked a shift toward a more modern, swing-style jazz.
Hit Record: The recording of "Take the 'A' Train" by Duke Ellington and his orchestra became a big hit, reaching No. 1 on the charts in 1941. It remains one of the most recognizable and enduring compositions in the jazz genre.
Recognition: The song received a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2000, recognizing its enduring significance in the world of music. It has been covered by countless artists and remains a standard in the jazz repertoire.
Legacy: "Take the 'A' Train" not only showcases the talent of Duke Ellington's orchestra but also highlights the genius of Billy Strayhorn, whose contributions to jazz are often underappreciated.
Musical Style: The song is known for its catchy melody and lively, swinging rhythm. It perfectly captures the spirit of the big band jazz era and is often performed by jazz musicians and bands to this day.
"Take the 'A' Train" is a timeless jazz classic that continues to be celebrated for its musical brilliance and its connection to the vibrant jazz scene of 1940s New York City.