Sundays with Duke #19: A Dawnbound Dash

As we continue through 1934, we arrive at one of Duke Ellington’s most joyful recurring themes: the sound of the train. This time it’s a full‑on novelty delight — Daybreak Express.

Leaving the Station

Let’s spin the Victor recording:

It’s remarkable how the arrangement captures the whole journey — the whistle, the wheels, the gathering speed — yet still holds together as a real composition rather than a sound‑effects stunt.

Duke recorded this in late 1933 for a 1934 release, but I don’t think he ever revisited it, unlike, say, Solitude. Everything that needed to be said was said right here.. And after last week’s twelve‑car “Solitude” special, this one‑car novelty train pulls in nice and tidy!

The Warehouse Find

Although Duke’s record was popular, perhaps due to the novelty aspect of the tune, Daybreak Express didn’t inspire many contemporary covers. But I did manage to dig up one!

Borrah Minevich and his Harmonica Rascals recorded their own version for Decca in 1934:

Borrah and the boys could seemingly do anything with their “Technique‑Tone Harmonicas” (as the label proudly put it), so this was a perfect vehicle for them to show off.

I’d happily hop aboard either train!

Collector's note: The sheet music shown at the top isn't real. I'm not sure if there was sheet music published for Daybreak Express, but if there was, I hope it looked like this!