Duke Ellington’s “African Flower”

Mike Neer · Post by **Mike Neer** » 10 May 2021 9:25 pm

To listen to Duke Ellington play this is pure magic. This tune really moves me.
Here is my humble tribute to the greatest. I played and arranged and recorded everything for what it’s worth.

https://mikeneer.bandcamp.com/track/african-flower

Earnest Bovine · Post by **Earnest Bovine** » 11 May 2021 5:41 am

magical

Christopher Woitach · Post by **Christopher Woitach** » 11 May 2021 6:24 am

I love this, Mike - beautiful and personal

Yeah, man

Mike Neer · Post by **Mike Neer** » 11 May 2021 10:39 am

You made my day, guys. Thanks!

Craig Stock · Post by **Craig Stock** » 11 May 2021 1:38 pm

Very nice Mike! Hope you include that this summer in Westfield!

Susan Alcorn (deceased) · Post by **Susan Alcorn (deceased)** » 16 May 2021 7:24 am

Nice!!! I love how you interpret this Ellington piece - you truly bring it to life.

Mike Neer · Post by **Mike Neer** » 17 May 2021 8:23 am

Thanks, Susan!

When Ellington presented this tune at a session with Mingus and Max Roach, he instructed them to imagine the most beautiful flower ever seen in the middle of the jungle, unseen by any other eyes.

There is a scene from Ratatouille where a food critic tastes the rat's ratatouille, and all the fondest memories of his childhood flash back through his mind. For me, it's one of the most moving things I've ever seen on film, and I wanted to capture a piece of that feeling.

Richard Nelson · Post by **Richard Nelson** » 17 May 2021 4:12 pm

Nice one Mike.

Tom Keller · Post by **Tom Keller** » 18 May 2021 9:40 am

Great sound Mike! I loved it.