Gay Jazz Genius Billy Strayhorn Gets Due

Billy Strayhorn, a pivotal figure in jazz, was the creative genius behind many of Duke Ellington's most famous compositions. Born in 1915 in Dayton, Ohio, Strayhorn displayed musical talent from a young age, later meeting Ellington in 1938, a meeting that changed his life.

He joined Ellington's orchestra the following year, becoming indispensable as an arranger and composer. During the swing era's height, Strayhorn's compositions, such as "Take the A Train," flourished, partly due to a radio dispute that favored his ASCAP-exempt works.

Despite his immense talent, Strayhorn often received insufficient credit for his work. Ellington acknowledged him as his "right arm," yet his name was sometimes omitted from compositions, and he was excluded from awards like the Grammy for "Anatomy of a Murder."

Strayhorn lived openly as a gay man, a rarity for mid-20th century America, with partners like Aaron Bridgers and Bill Grove. He was also an active participant in the civil rights movement, attending the 1963 March on Washington.

Since his death in 1967, efforts have been made to honor Strayhorn. His family established Billy Strayhorn Songs Inc. and the Billy Strayhorn Foundation. A Peabody Award-winning documentary, "Billy Strayhorn: Lush Life," and various biographical works have since brought his legacy to light.