Martin wrote: Seeking a good autobio of Duke that scrutinizes the evolution of his band. More accurately, I'd like a musical biography of him and his band. Also, I'm wondering if there's a narrative sessionography for Ellington like Jack Chambers' "Milestones" (for Miles).
Listening to lots of early Ellington now and came across a statement of how Bubber Miley changed the direction of the band (from pretty music to jungle music) and how Bubber and Tricky Sam Nanton were constantly feeding off each other in coming up with new ideas and sounds.... Whetted my appetite for more....
from my bookshelf: Duke Ellington Reader, edited by Mark Tucker - an historical anthology of articles, interviews and essays arranged chronologically from every decade of his career - contemporary accounts as well as long term analysis. Ellington, The Early Years, by Mark Tucker - Tucker's work compiling the above was great preparation for this - probably what you're seeking in studying the roots and evolution of the band. Duke Ellington, Jazz Composer, by Ken Rattenbury - full of transcriptions and musical analysis, the most useful in seeking out more technical answers - English author doesn't cover culture Beyond Category, The Life & Genius of Duke Ellington, by John Edward Hasse - a thick book, but more of an overview. Each section ends with an "Essential Ellington" subchapter on recordings. The World of Duke Ellington, by Stanley Dance - this English author gets it right, for he was personally close to Ellington, and travelled with the band. Not much in the way of musical analysis, but packed with anecdotes. Dance is a fine writer, whose American wife produced some of Duke's small group sessions. Duke Ellington in Person, by Mercer Ellington (w/Stanley Dance) - touching, intimate and revealing view by his long suffering son - the closest look we can get. Music Is My Mistress, by Duke Ellington - the autobiography that is more of a love note to his colleagues, prior to his passing. At least it's in his own words, revealing his personality. related: Lush Life, by David Hajdu - really great biography of Strayhorn. Last chapter has a touching cameo of Duke. Boy Meets Horn, and Jazz Masters of the Thirties, both by Rex Stewart - this very talented cornetist was an astute writer (and cook) who covers some Ellington in these books, and was the leader who gave Steve Lacy his stage name.