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Billy Strayhorn was a remarkably talented composer and pianist, known for his contributions to jazz music, particularly through his work with the Duke Ellington Orchestra and the composition "Take the 'A' Train." Here are some interesting facts about him and this iconic jazz composition:

1. Early Collaboration with Duke Ellington: Billy Strayhorn met Duke Ellington in 1938 at a party, where he played one of Ellington's songs on the piano. Ellington was so impressed that he invited Strayhorn to join his orchestra. This marked the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration between the two.

2. "Take the 'A' Train": Strayhorn composed "Take the 'A' Train" in 1939. This piece would become one of the most iconic and enduring tunes in the jazz repertoire. It became the signature tune of the Duke Ellington Orchestra and a symbol of the Swing Era.

3. Inspiration for the Song: The title "Take the 'A' Train" refers to the A subway line in New York City. Strayhorn was given directions to Ellington's home in Harlem, and these directions involved taking the A train. Strayhorn used this idea to create the song's catchy and evocative title.

4. Debut at Carnegie Hall: The Duke Ellington Orchestra first performed "Take the 'A' Train" at Carnegie Hall on January 23, 1943. This performance helped cement the song's status as a jazz standard.

5. Composing for Duke Ellington: Strayhorn was a significant contributor to Duke Ellington's repertoire. He arranged and composed many of the orchestra's most famous pieces, and his work often went uncredited or undercredited in his early years with the band.

6. Lyrical Adaptations: The instrumental version of "Take the 'A' Train" became famous, but later, lyrics were added by Joya Sherrill and, later, by Bob Russell. These lyrics added to the song's popularity, making it accessible to vocalists and further solidifying its place in jazz history.

7. Struggles with Identity: Strayhorn was an openly gay man during a time when this was not widely accepted. He faced personal and professional challenges due to his sexual orientation, but Duke Ellington supported and protected him.

8. Legacy: Billy Strayhorn's compositions, including "Take the 'A' Train," continue to be celebrated in the world of jazz. His work has had a profound influence on jazz music, and he is remembered as one of the most important and innovative composers and arrangers in the genre.

9. Honors and Awards: Strayhorn received several honors during and after his lifetime. He was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1984, and a portion of 125th Street in Harlem, New York City, was renamed "Billy Strayhorn Way" in his honor.

Billy Strayhorn's contributions to jazz, particularly through compositions like "Take the 'A' Train," have left an indelible mark on the music world, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today.