Irving Mills

Irving Mills did a great deal to help jazz, making himself a great deal of money in the process. He is most famous for his work as manager for Duke Ellington during 1926-1939, helping Ellington gain his job at the Cotton Club, in addition to securing numerous recording sessions and important engagements. He also wrote the lyrics to some of Ellington's songs, including "It Don't Mean a Thing if It Ain't Got That Swing," "Mood Indigo," and "Sophisticated Lady." He had earlier worked with his brother, Jack, in establishing a music publishing business that became Mills Music, Inc....