At the Club Royale in San Diego (1948)
(back row from left) BUBBLES (Buck & Bubbles Comedy Team),
JOHNNY HODGES (Duke's Sax man), Mr.Ramsey (Hotel Owner),
JERRY VELASCO and on the far right is The Great DUKE ELLINGTON

(front row on left) Jerry's sister, Maria Velasco (Piano player, Entertainer)
Edward Kennedy ("Duke") Ellington was recognised in his lifetime as one of the greatest jazz composers and performers. A genius for instrumental combinations, improvisation and jazz arranging brought the world the unique "Ellington" sound that found consummate expressions in works like "Mood Indigo" and "Sophisticated Lady".

Beginning keyboard studies at age 7, he taught himself harmony at the piano. Encouraged by Fats Waller he moved to New York in 1923 during the formative Cotton Club Years and developed his style that would quickly bring him worldwide success and recognition.
(front left) JOE ALEXANDER (Capitol recording star),  Maria Velasco.
(back row) Mrs.Joe Alexander, JERRY VELASCO, DUKE ELLINGTON.
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