Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life

A rising nineteen-year-old singer by the name of Billie Holiday made her screen debut in this musical landmark, which features Duke Ellington and his orchestra performing his symphonic jazz piece “A Rhapsody of Negro Life” set to scenes of everyday African American life.

• Fred WallerDirector
• Duke EllingtonOriginal Music Composer
• Fred RathWriter
• Milton HockeyWriter

• Duke EllingtonSelf
• Billie HolidaySelf - Blues Singer (uncredited)
• Earl 'Snake Hips' TuckerJilting lover / specialty dancer (uncredited)
• Barney BigardSelf - Clarinet (uncredited)
• Joe 'Tricky Sam' NantonSelf - Trombone (uncredited)