Billy Strayhorn Quotes

A collection of quotes by Billy Strayhorn.

Billy Strayhorn was an American jazz composer, pianist, and arranger, best known for his collaboration with Duke Ellington. He was born on November 29, 1915, in Dayton, Ohio. From a young age, Strayhorn displayed a prodigious talent for music and started taking piano lessons at the age of 9.

In 1938, at the age of 23, Strayhorn composed the jazz standard "Take the 'A' Train," which became the signature tune of the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Strayhorn joined the orchestra shortly after, working closely with Ellington for the next three decades. Through their collaboration, Strayhorn's arrangements and compositions profoundly influenced the development of jazz music.

Strayhorn's style was marked by his innovative harmonies, sophisticated melodies, and evocative lyrics. He composed numerous jazz standards, such as "Lush Life," "Chelsea Bridge," and "Something to Live For," which showcased his lyrical and emotional depth. Despite his significant contributions to Ellington's catalog, Strayhorn often remained in the shadows and some of his works were mistakenly attributed to Ellington.

Strayhorn passed away on May 31, 1967, at the age of 51, due to complications from cancer. His legacy as a highly influential jazz composer and musician endures to this day, as his compositions continue to be performed and admired by jazz enthusiasts worldwide. In recognition of his contributions to music, Strayhorn was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.