When he brought his orchestra to the Newport Jazz Festival on July 7, 1956, 57-year-old Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington revitalized his career with an inspired performance.
Duke Ellington at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival
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Best of PS
Frank Sinatra: The Stories Behind His Songs
Frank Sinatra was the best friend a song ever had. We have the stories behind some of his greatest hits— like “Nice ‘n’ Easy,” “My Way,” “It Was a Very Good Year,” “All the Way,” and “The Best Is Yet to Come”—told by the songwriters.
Rock’s Mysterious Deaths: Sam Cooke
Sam Cooke was shot to death on Dec. 10, 1964 outside an L.A. Motel under mysterious circumstances. With many questions left unanswered, Performing Songwriter takes a look at that fateful night.
Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!
On Dec. 9, 1965 ‘Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown’ became synonymous with the holiday when “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and its Vince Guaraldi soundtrack aired for the first time.
Tom Waits Quotes and Quips
Tom Waits is as much of a character as any of the hundreds of freaks, carnies and people waiting for salvation at the bottom of a glass that he creates in his songs. It was in 1973 that Waits launched his whiskey-soaked persona with the release of Closing Time, an...
Randy Newman’s Cast of Characters
An Interview with Randy Newman on his approach to songwriting and the stories behind his songs Political Science, Redneck, Short People, God’s Song, and more.
The Beatles’ White Album
On Nov. 22, 1968 the Beatles released their 9th official album, the 2-record, 30-song masterpiece known as the White Album.
Happy Birthday, Neil Young
Neil Young’s interview with Performing Songwriter magazine accompanied by classic photos by Henry Diltz and the stories behind them.
Farewell, Merle Haggard
On April 6, 2016, his 79th birthday, Merle Haggard left this earth. To honor him, here is an interview from 2007 where he chatted with us about Johnny Cash, jail and wild nights with George Jones. Farewell, Hag. Thank you for a lifetime of music and memories.
The Musical Language of James Taylor
An interview with James Taylor that took place on his birthday in 2002, where he talks about the enduring role that music has played in his life.
The Remarkable Life of Dolly Parton
Dolly parton talks about her favorite subject—songwriting. Included is the story behind “I Will Always Love You” and turning down Elvis Presley when he wanted to record it.
Elton John’s American Debut: August 25, 1970
On August 25, 1970, Elton John made his U.S. debut in a legendary six-night sold-out run at West Hollywood’s Troubadour.
