Movie

Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life

★ 6.8/10 · 18 votes 1935 0h 9m Released

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.

Cast

Duke Ellington Self Billie Holiday Self - Blues Singer (uncre E Earl 'Snake Hips' Tucker Jilting lover / specialty B Barney Bigard Self - Clarinet (uncredite J Joe 'Tricky Sam' Nanton Self - Trombone (uncredite