MIDNIGHTSCREENCINEMA AFTER DARK
Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life poster
Movie profile

Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life

6.819359m
MusicDrama

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.

Directed by Fred Waller

Visual gallery

Behind the frames

2 stills
Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life still 1
Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life still 2

Cast

Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington

Self

Billie Holiday

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)

Curated

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