Musicians & Composers · Early 20th Century
Duke Ellington’s Last Words
“He died quietly at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.”— Duke Ellington, May 24, 1974
Who Was Duke Ellington?
Duke Ellington was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader who is widely considered one of the greatest jazz composers in history. He wrote over 1,000 compositions.
The Final Moments
Ellington died at Columbia–Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer and pneumonia.
Are These Words Verified?
Describes circumstances of death, not spoken words. Contemporary obituaries confirm hospital location and causes but record no specific final utterance from Ellington.
Sources
- newspaper New York Times obituary
- newspaper Contemporary news reports
Legacy
Ellington's compositions — from Mood Indigo to Take the A Train — define jazz. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a posthumous Pulitzer Prize.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Duke Ellington’s last words?
“He died quietly at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.”
How did Duke Ellington die?
Duke Ellington died on May 24, 1974 at the age of 75. Cause of death: Lung cancer and pneumonia.
Were Duke Ellington’s last words documented?
Describes circumstances of death, not spoken words. Contemporary obituaries confirm hospital location and causes but record no specific final utterance from Ellington.