DUKE ELLINGTON
(1899 - 1974) American band leader and composer of such hits as "Mood Indigo", "Ko Ko" and "Sophisticated Lady". ELLINGTON'S FIRST CONTRACT WITH THE MUSICRAFT LABEL An excellent pair of signed items from the great composer, includes a very important signed document, 2pp., New York, Mar. 16, 1946. In this original signed carbon, Ellington executes his first contract with recording label Musicraft who would record some of the composer's best work. Ellington is to receive $60,000 in his first year, with an immediate advance of $15,000, with other typical performance clauses also incorporated. Signed by Ellington at conclusion, also signed by Musicraft head Irving Felt and a William Morris Agency representative. File holes at top, else fine. Sold with a vintage inscribed signed photo, 5" x 7" b/w, a chest, up portrait signed "Duke" (tape stains in extreme margins, else fine).