Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life backdrop

Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life

A rising nineteen-year-old singer by the name of Billie Holiday made her screen debut in this musical landmark, which features Duke Ellington and his orchestra performing his symphonic jazz piece “A Rhapsody of Negro Life” set to scenes of everyday African American life.

Release Date: September 12, 1935

Status: Released

Genres:

Music

Drama

Cast

Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington

Self

Billie Holiday

Billie Holiday

Self - Blues Singer (uncredited)

Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker

Jilting lover / specialty dancer (uncredited)

Barney Bigard

Self - Clarinet (uncredited)

Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton

Self - Trombone (uncredited)