Duke Ellington And Ella Fitzgerald - Live at the Cote Dazur is a masterpiece of musical performance that captures the magic of two of jazz's all-time greats. This concert film features a legendary concert that took place on July 29, 1966, in what has been called the most beautiful amphitheater in the world. The amphitheater is located in France and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean sea on the French Riviera.
The film begins with a view of the stunning coastline and the architecture of the Cote d'Azur, setting the stage for the concert. Then, Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald come onto the stage to thunderous applause, and they start with a rendition of Duke's hit tune, "Take the 'A' Train". The audience is enraptured by the sight of the two great performers on stage together, and the chemistry between them is immediately apparent.
The concert then proceeds with a selection of Duke's most famous songs like "Perdido", "C-Jam Blues", and "Mood Indigo". The songs are performed with sublime artistry, showcasing the immense talent of the two legends in their prime. Ella Fitzgerald's voice is transcendent, effortlessly gliding through each note with perfect pitch and intonation, while Duke's piano and his orchestra provide an elegant, sparkling accompaniment.
In between the songs, Duke and Ella engage in some light banter, displaying their wit and charm, and giving the audience an insight into their personalities. They also talk about their musical influences and the evolution of jazz music over the years, creating an intimate, relaxed atmosphere that makes the concert feel like a private performance.
One of the standout moments of the concert is when Ella Fitzgerald sings "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)", one of Duke's most famous compositions. Her rendition is pure magic, embodying the spirit of swing and jazz with every note. Duke and his orchestra match her energy, creating an explosive synergy that has to be seen to be believed.
As the concert progresses, Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald give the audience different flavors of jazz with "I Got It Bad (and That Ain't Good)", "Satin Doll", and "Too Close for Comfort". They also mix in some slower, more romantic songs, deeply emotional numbers that showcase the incredible range of their musical expression.
The concert comes to an end with another Duke Ellington classic, "Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me". The audience is on their feet, cheering and applauding, clearly moved by the unforgettable performance they just witnessed. The film then ends with a view of the sun setting over the Mediterranean, the perfect backdrop to a concert that is beyond compare.
In conclusion, Duke Ellington And Ella Fitzgerald - Live at the Cote Dazur is a must-see for any jazz lover, giving an unparalleled look at the beauty of these two legends in their prime. The brilliance of Duke Ellington's compositions and the sublime talent of Ella Fitzgerald create an alchemy of sound that is truly unparalleled, and this film captures it all with stunning clarity and grace.
