Be still my heart. Not only do we have an African-American President, but now we have an African-American on a coin! Yes, money! Famed jazz performer and activist Duke Ellington is featured on the new District of Columbia Quarter. It is part of the U.S. Mint’s line of state-themed quarters. This is yet another historical achievement for Americans of African decent.
Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington was born into a middle-class family in Washington, D.C. in 1899. He began piano lessons at the age of 
seven. He began performing professionally at the age of 17. His career spanned over 50 years. Ellington led his band from 1923 until his death in 1974.
As both a composer and a band leader, Ellington’s reputation has increased since his death, with many repackagings of his signature music often becoming best-sellers. Ellington enjoyed a career full of accolades and earned 13 Grammy awards from 1959 to 2000, nine while he was alive. Posthumous recognition of his work include a special award citation from the Pulitzer Prize Board.
Duke Ellington influenced millions of people both around the world and at home. He gave American music its own sound for the first time. In his fifty year career, he played over 20,000 performances in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East as well as Asia.
Ellington Quotes
“Now I can say loudly and openly what I have been saying to myself on my knees.”
“A problem is your chance to do your best.”
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