It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)

Duke Ellington · 1932 · With singer Ivie Anderson.

Context

Recorded on February 2, 1932, by Duke Ellington's orchestra with singer Ivie Anderson, this track is among the first uses of the word "swing" in popular music. It features solos by Joe Nanton on trombone and Johnny Hodges on alto saxophone. It became a standard and entered the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.

In the genealogy of jazz

This track belongs to Harlem: Henderson, Redman, Ellington, Swing, big bands. Among the origins and influences of Harlem: Henderson, Redman, Ellington: Chicago, Stride (Harlem piano).

Cited in 1 radio episode

• Sep 21, 2026: IT DON'T MEAN A THING - IF IT AIN'T GOT THAT BUBBER MIILEY (Anatomie d'un titre, TSF Jazz, in French)

By the same artist

• Sophisticated Lady (1933)
• Mood Indigo (1930)
• Black and Tan Fantasy (1927)
• Creole Love Call (1927)
• East St. Louis Toodle-Oo (1927)
• Cotton Tail (1940)

Sources

• EN: It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)

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