Ellington recorded the album as a tribute to Billy Strayhorn, who died of esophageal cancer in May 1967.[2][3] Strayhorn was a composer, arranger, and one of Ellington's closest friends.[2]
Recording and music
The album was recorded in August and November 1967.[3] The material is Strayhorn's compositions, including some that had not previously been recorded.[2] Ellington chose the songs to demonstrate Strayhorn's versatility and range, as well as to pay homage to the qualities that he most admired in his late writing partner.[2]
"Blood Count" was Strayhorn's last composition, written for the Ellington Orchestra's 1967 concert at Carnegie Hall. Another piece with a medical-related title is "U.M.M.G.", short for 'Upper Manhattan Medical Group'.[3] The 1951 composition "Rock Skippin' at the Blue Note" showcases Cootie Williams, Jimmy Hamilton, and John Sanders.[2]
...And His Mother Called Him Bill won the Grammy Award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album in 1969.[4] The AllMusic reviewer wrote that, "For a man who issued well over 300 albums, this set is among his most profoundly felt and very finest recorded moments."[2]
As the band was packing up to leave the session, Ellington remained at the piano, pouring his heart out on Strayhorn's "Lotus Blossom." Fortunately, the mic was open and the tape deck still running.
Track listing
All compositions by Billy Strayhorn except where noted
