DJ Chrisbe’s Song of the Week #41: Cherry

William Thomas “Billy” Strayhorn (29.11.1915-31.5.1967) was a composer, arranger & pianist and especially known for his successful collaboration with Duke Ellington. His most famous composition probably is “Take the “A” Train“.

Strayhorn only led few sessions throughout his career.

1959 he (only) recorded his second full-length album called Cue For Saxophone as the Billy Strayhorn Septet.

Actually, the main star is altoist Cue Porter – who was nobody else than Johnny Hodges – while Strayhorn (who plays piano on the seven songs of the album) only co-wrote two basic tune with Hodges and played a fairly minor role.

Cherry is one of my favourite songs, almost six minutes long. Johnny Hodges' distinctive style is wonderful. A great song for a Sunday afternoon swing party 🙂

You can find the songs of the series also on my Spotify playlist. Official hashtag of the series: #djcsotw

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