Edward Kennedy -Duke- Ellington (April 29; 1899 May 24; 1974) was an American composer; pianist; and bandleader. Recognized during his life as one of the most influential figures in jazz; if not in all American music; Ellington-s reputation has increased since his death; including a special award citation from the Pulitzer Prize Board.One of the twentieth century-s best-known African-American celebrities; Ellington recorded for many American record companies; and appeared in several films. Ellington and his orchestra toured the United States and Europe regularly before and after World War II. Ellington led his band from 1923 until his death in 1974. His son Mercer Ellington took over the band until his death from cancer in 1996. "Cotton Tail" is a 1940 composition by Duke Ellington.[1] It is based on the rhythm changes from George Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm". The first Ellington recording (2 May 1940) is notable for the driving tenor saxophone solo by Ben Webster. Originally an instrumental, "Cotton Tail" later had lyrics written for it by Ellington. Later, more lyrics were written, based on the 1940 recording, by Jon Hendricks, and recorded by Lambert,.