What job did Duke Ellington have?

Duke Ellington was a renowned jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader. He is best known for his work in the early to mid-20th century, where he led one of the most famous jazz orchestras and composed numerous influential pieces. Ellington's contributions to music extended beyond performance; he played a pivotal role in elevating jazz to a respected art form. His career spanned over five decades, during which he became a central figure in American music history.