He divided his studies between music and commercial art, and by 1918 established a reputation as a bandleader and agent. In 1923 he went to New York City and soon became a successful bandleader. In 1927 he secured an important engagement at the Cotton Club in Harlem, a section of New York City, and remained there (aside from occasional tours) until 1932.Ellington's band made its first European trip in 1932. After World War II (1939–45), the band toured Europe regularly, with short trips to South America, the Far East, and Australia. One peak period for the band was from 1939 to 1942, when many critics considered its performances
Ellignton took many actions early in his life to impact his future sucess. Ellignton allowed those decisions to give him oppurtunities and understanding in the music world. At the age " fourteen, he started sneaking into music clubs and listening to the professional pianists there" (Paragraph 3). "After he graduated he took a job as a sign-painter, which he also used to build his music carrer" (Paragraph 4). These actions adolescencent Ellignton took impacted his talent and understanding of music. But, the biggest decision by far little Eliigton took to impact his future success is when "Ellignton decided to move to New York City in the early 1920's. He became an important figure in the Harlem Renaissance" (Paragraph 5). Baby stardom steps lead Duke Ellignton to international fame (in Harlem). Without all those "by chance" early decisions, Ellignton couldn't have came so far, doing what he does best, in front of thousands.
