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Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life Poster

Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life (1935)

Sep 12, 1935 Music, Drama 0h 9m
User Score
66%
17 votes
Internet Movie Database
74%

Overview

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 Waller
Director
Fred Rath
Writer
Milton Hockey
Writer

Top Billed Cast

Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington

Self
Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday

Self - Blues Singer (uncredited)
Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker
Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker

Jilting lover / specialty dancer (uncredited)
Barney Bigard
Barney Bigard

Self - Clarinet (uncredited)
Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton
Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton

Self - Trombone (uncredited)

Full Cast & Crew

Media

Symphony in black--a rhapsody of Negro life
Symphony in black--a rhapsody of Negro life
Clip
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