Duke Ellington – Last Trip to Paris

A remarkable document from the final chapter of Duke Ellington’s extraordinary career, *Last Trip to Paris* captures the legendary composer, pianist, and bandleader directing his world-famous orchestra in Paris, France, on November 14, 1973, just months before his passing in May 1974.

Recorded during Ellington’s final European tour as part of George Wein’s celebrated Newport to Paris concert series, this historic performance reveals an orchestra still brimming with creativity, energy, and unmistakable Ellingtonian swing.

The ensemble brings together longtime Ellington veterans Harry Carney, Russell Procope, and Paul Gonsalves with a younger generation of outstanding musicians, including Johnny Coles, Harold Ashby, Harold Minerve, Barry Lee Hall, and Art Baron. Many would continue carrying the Ellington tradition forward under the leadership of Duke’s son, Mercer Ellington.

Despite declining health, the Maestro remains a commanding musical presence, bringing fresh ideas and vitality to familiar compositions. The 19 selections include “Rockin’ in Rhythm,” “Creole Love Call,” “Caravan,” “Sophisticated Lady,” “Chinoiserie,” “In Triplicate,” and “Lotus Blossom.”

Special highlights include guest appearances by French pianists Raymond Fol and Claude Bolling, each featured on “Take the ‘A’ Train,” along with vocals by Anita Moore, Toney Watkins, and trumpeter Money Johnson.

Featuring the rich orchestral colors, distinctive solo voices, and spontaneous musical invention that defined the Ellington sound, *Last Trip to Paris* offers a rare opportunity to experience one of America’s greatest musical artists near the conclusion of his legendary career.

An essential archival recording for Duke Ellington collectors, big band enthusiasts, and admirers of classic American jazz.

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1. Rockin’ In Rhythm

2. Creole Love Call ft. Money Johnson, Russell Procope

3. Spacemen, ft. Barry Lee Hall

4. Caravan

5. How High the Moon ft. Johnny Coles

6. New York, New York *

7. I Got it Bad and that Ain’t Good *

8. Blem *

9. Chinoiserie ft. Harold Ashby

10. Basin Street Blues, ft. Money Johnson, vocals.

11. Medley: Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, Mood Indigo, I’m Beginning to See the Light, Sophisticated Lady, ft. Harry Carney

12. In Triplicate, ft. Harold Minerve, Art Baron

13. Love You Madly +

14. One More Time *+

15. Woods ft. Paul Gonsalves, Percy Marion, Harold Ashby

16. Somebody Cares *+

17. Take the ‘A’ Train ft. Raymond Fol

18. Take the ‘A’ Train ft. Claude Bolling

19. Lotus Blossom

Personnel:

trumpets: Johnny Coles, Money Johnson, Barry Lee Hall, Mercer Ellington trombones: Vince Prudente, Art Baron, Chuck Connors saxophones: Harold Minerve, Russell Procope, Harold Ashby, Paul Gonsalves, Percy Marion, Harry Carney Piano: Duke Ellington Bass: Joe Benjamin Drums: Rocky White

* vocals: Anita Moore + vocals: Toney Watkins

guest soloists: Claude Bolling, Raymond Fol, pianos.

 

* This is a brand new, professionally manufactured & shrink-wrapped Ultra/Pro-CDR. It is officially licensed to Chambermusik Special Products for sale via special arrangement with the artists. We strive hard to make such exclusive products available in professional format at a reasonable price.