As racial conflict in America heats up, the center of jazz in New York moves from Harlem to 52nd Street. Duke Ellington rebuilds his band, begins his collaboration with arranger and composer Billy Strayhorn , records some of his most popular songs and pioneers serious long-form jazz compositions. Charlie Parker struggles with his own heroin addiction. Then, with Dizzy Gillespie , he records several bebop masterworks Others featured include Ben Webster , Billie Holiday , Dave Brubeck and Louis Armstrong . Features comments from Jay McShann, Arvell Shaw, Stan Levey, Jimmy Rowles, Wynton Marsalis, Joya Sherrill, Jackie McLean, and others.
Jazz becomes the official symbol of American democracy abroad.
Television supplants radio, but offers fewer opportunities for jazz to be heard. Most big bands are forced to dismantle. The rhythm and blues phenomenon further erodes the audience for jazz. Viewers meet Bud Powell , Erroll Garner and Thelonious Monk , who finally attains recognition for his unique approach and sound. A young trumpeter from East St. Louis, Miles Davis , makes a set of recordings with innovative composer Gil Evans and becomes the most influential musician of his generation.