Billy Strayhorn Rank
About Billy Strayhorn
William Thomas “Billy” Strayhorn was an American composer and pianist whose groundbreaking work influenced the American Jazz genre. He was the first openly gay jazz artist who was unafraid of public commentary on his sexual identity. He is renowned for working with the composer and bandleader Duke Ellington's for a large part of his musical career.
His Life
He spent a significant portion of his formative years at his grandparents' home in Hillsborough in North Carolina. Inspired by his grandmother, the Ohio-born honed his musical talents by participating in his school band while attending Westinghouse High School.
Career
Following a brief study of classical music, and while in his teens, he wrote the lyrics for the songs "Life Is Lonely", "My Little Brown Book," and "Something to Live For." In his late teens, he penned down songs for the professional musical Fantastic Rhythm.
In 1938, he sent an application to legendary American composer and pianist Ellington for work as a lyricist, using his own song "Lush Life" as a reference. The highly acclaimed "Take the 'A' Train" and "Chelsea Bridge", a superb illustration of his style, were among his compositions recorded by Ellington in 1939.
Death
On May 31, 1967, esophageal cancer claimed his life.
Trivia
Strayhorn's first love was classical music.
Billy Strayhorn Rank
Viewers of Billy Strayhorn, also viewed
F.A.Q. about Billy Strayhorn
When is his birthday?
Billy Strayhorn's birthday is on November 29, 1915.
In how many days is his birthday?
Billy Strayhorn's birthday is in 310 days
How old was Billy Strayhorn when he died?
He was 51 years old.
When did he die?
He died in May 31, 1967.
How old would he be today?
Billy Strayhorn would be 109 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Billy Strayhorn from?
He was born in Dayton, Ohio, U.S..