Videos
Duke Ellington's 70th birthday celebrations hosted by President Richard Nixon.
Extremely rare video footage
April 29, 1969
President Richard Nixon threw a 70th birthday party for Duke Ellington at the White House, where he awarded Duke the Medal of Freedom.
The Voice of America's Willis Conover organized the band and performers for the occasion.
Ellington himself performed an original called "Pat," in honor of the President's wife.
Although this video does not show Dave playing it does show his embracing of Duke and the eviident love for each other.
Narrated by Willis Conover.