Lush Life: A Biography of Billy Strayhorn by David Hajdu

Billy Strayhorn was one of the most gifted composers and arrangers in American jazz, yet much of his career was spent in the shadow of his close friend and collaborator Duke Ellington. Best known for creating classics such as “Take the ‘A’ Train,” Strayhorn helped shape the sound of the Ellington orchestra while rarely receiving equal public recognition.

In Lush Life, David Hajdu draws on Strayhorn’s personal papers and more than five hundred interviews to tell the story of his life, music, relationships and creative achievements. The biography examines both his extraordinary talent and the personal challenges he faced throughout his career.

Richly researched and deeply personal, this book restores Strayhorn to his rightful place in jazz history while revealing the man behind the music.

A compelling choice for readers interested in jazz, American music, Duke Ellington, composers, music history and twentieth-century biography.

Paperback, Very Good. Does have a "Friends of the Calais Free Library' stamp on the inside of front cover.