Satin Doll

“Satin Doll” was composed by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, and was first introduced in 1953. The piece became one of the signature tunes of the Duke Ellington Orchestra and is widely recognized as a jazz standard among musicians.

The song follows a 32-bar AABA structure, characterized by a series of diatonic chord progressions. The melody is smooth and elegant, with the bridge section featuring a somewhat complex chord progression that adds to the song’s unique charm.

The key to a successful performance of “Satin Doll” lies in capturing its elegance and sophistication. The melody should be played with a soft and expressive touch, while the harmonic progression in the bridge must be understood and executed precisely. The rhythm section should maintain a stable and refined feel throughout the performance, ensuring the song’s polished atmosphere is preserved. In the solo sections, it is important to retain the original mood while adding your personal interpretation.