Sundays with Duke #7: A "Misty Mornin'" in 1928

Today we’re spending some time with one of Duke’s more atmospheric early masterpieces: "Misty Mornin'." While we are moving into the 1929-1930 Victor era, I wanted to circle back to this specific mood piece.

Originally recorded for OKeh on November 22, 1928, this track is a masterclass in texture. While many of the Cotton Club numbers were high-energy "stomps" meant to get people on their feet, this one feels like it was written for that quiet, contemplative hour just before the sun comes up.

The Personnel

You can really hear the "Big Three" of the early Ellington brass section at work here, creating that signature "shimmer" through the fog:

• Bubber Miley on trumpet (providing that soulful, muted longing)

• Joe "Tricky Sam" Nanton on trombone

• Barney Bigard on clarinet

Also of note is that trumpeter Arthur Whetsel gets co-composer credit. I’m thinking it’s another case of one of Duke’s sidemen coming up with a melodic phrase that Duke turned into a completed song.

The Vibe

There’s a specific "chill" to this record. It doesn't scream; it whispers. It’s the kind of tune that makes you want to turn up the collar of your coat and watch the fog roll in over the city. It’s also a great example of how Duke was already experimenting with orchestral colors that no one else in jazz was even thinking about in the late 20s.

[Insert Link: Duke Ellington - Misty Mornin' (1928)]

Dig Lonnie Johnson, returning one last time with a tasty guitar solo!

I’ve always felt this was one of the most underrated tunes from this era. It isn't a "shouter," but it stays with you long after the needle hits the run-out groove.

The 1929 Victor Version

Bubber Miley had left the band and was permanently replaced by Cootie Williams by the time Duke and the boys returned to the tune in May of 1929, when they recorded this version for Victor:

Note that the billing is now Duke Ellington and his Cotton Club Orchestra!

How does each version hit you? Do you get misty?

The British Connection

I was able to dig up one contemporary cover of “Misty Mornin,” which was recorded by British bandleader Spike Hughes for Decca in 1930. Let’s spin that one:

Those British dance bands had it going on in the 1930s!