Famous Black Heroes from A to Z

Duke Ellington – Take the A Train

Duke Ellington
1899 – 1974
birthplace – Washington, DC

“Take the A Train”

Duke Ellington (born Edward Kennedy Ellington) was a great conductor and composer. His special style of music made him famous around the world. He created jazz songs and orchestra music that influenced many musicians and attracted millions of fans.

As a youngster, Duke showed talent as a pianist. He didn’t like to practice, but he did. His friends began to call him “Duke” because he liked to dress in fancy clothes.

Music became Duke’s full-time job when he was 18. He became the leader of his own band when he moved to New York City. He soon became a star.

Duke received many awards, and played for kings, queens, and presidents of the United States. He wrote over 1,000 songs and composed music for Broadway shows. He performed in nightclubs as well as concert halls in many countries.

“Take the A Train” and “Sophisticated Lady” are two of Duke Ellington’s most popular songs. The world has been made richer by the music created by the “Duke.”

Katherine Dunham – Pioneer of Black Dance

Katherine Dunham
1910 – 2006
birthplace – Joliet, Illinois

“Pioneer of Black Dance”

Katherine Dunham was a dancer, choreographer, and anthropologist. She used her many talents to make an important gift to the world.

When Katherine was a college student, she won a scholarship to study anthropology in Haiti. While she was there, she studied Haitian dances. Katherine was the first person to realize how important these dances were. She believed they could teach people many things about black history and culture. She knew they should be shared with the world.

When Katherine returned to the United States, she brought the dances with her. She formed a company of black dancers that became famous throughout the world. Katherine traveled to many nations and studied the dances of many cultures. She used the beautiful language of dance to teach people about themselves and others. Katherine is known as a pioneer of black dance. Many of the dances she created are still being performed today.