Duke Ellington is one of the greatest artists in jazz music history. The bandleader/composer wrote “Satin Doll,” one of his most popular hits in 1953, with a little help from longtime collaborator Billy Strayhorn. The song is defined by a seductive harmony line that is said to explore the contrast between masculinity and femininity – a recurrent theme in Ellington’s work. Johnny Mercer later added lyrics to the original instrumental version and prompted many vocalists to record their own versions throughout the ’60s.
Like this article? Get more when you subscribe.