On the Road With Duke Ellington

Movie / Show Details

Robert Drew’s documentary follows Duke Ellington, widely recognized as the twentieth century’s most significant composer, during his life on the road with his orchestra. Filmed in 1967 and released in 1974, the film captures the legendary bandleader and his musicians performing, working in the studio, and navigating daily life. Viewers see Ellington at his piano, conducting business, and sharing reflections on his touring lifestyle, while the film also documents personal moments including his attendance at the funeral of his musical partner Billy Strayhorn. The result is an intimate portrait of a sophisticated, hip man whose existence revolved entirely around music.

This is a single-disc DVD from New Video, not rated, running approximately one hour. The Academy Film Archive preserved this documentary, which features performances by Ellington’s orchestra alongside appearances by Johnny Hodges, Louis Armstrong, and Mercer Ellington. A used copy gives you a chance to own this slice of jazz history at a fraction of retail cost.