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

Title: Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life
Original Title: Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life
Release Date: 1935-09-12
Status: Released
Rating: 6.6/10 (from 16 votes)
Language: EN
Genres: Music, Drama
Production Companies: Paramount Pictures
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.
Cast

Duke Ellington
Self

Billie Holiday
Self - Blues Singer (uncredited)

Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker
Jilting lover / specialty dancer (uncredited)

Barney Bigard
Self - Clarinet (uncredited)

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