In the last few months, I’ve posted songs with an anti-MAGA subtext. This week, I’m focused on the music itself. Mood Indigo is one of the most beautiful melodies ever composed by Duke Ellington. And that’s saying a lot.
Mood Indigo was written in 1930 by Duke Ellington, Barney Bigard, and Irving Mills. It began life as an instrumental called Dreamy Blues. That was when Duke led the house band at the Cotton Club where the tune caused something of a sensation, so lyrics were added by Irving Mills. There’s a longer story but I don’t feel like telling it. It’s a holiday for Chrissakes.
We begin with the composer:
Duke enjoyed recording with other artists, this is the first of three collaborative versions of this week’s tune.
Ella and Duke. Say no more squared.
Let’s attend a summit meeting with two jazz giants.
Here’s Frank Sinatra and Nelson Riddle with the moodiest and bluest version of all:
I don’t know about you but I’d join any club that Nat was a member of.
My homey Dr. John from his aptly named Ellington tribute album, Duke Elegant.
What would the Friday Cocktail Hour be without more jazz instrumental versions of the week’s tune? This week two titans, Thelonious Monk followed by Charles Mingus.
That’s it for this week. Let’s toast those who celebrate Easter and Passover. It’s what Bogie, Betty, and Frank would want. Never argue with them.
