Hehas originated jazz rhythms, and in 1931, was awardedfirst place above white contestants in a contest for themost popular dance orchestral leader, arranged by the and decided by popular ballot. Hisdance hits include "Mood Indigo," "Sophisticated Lady,"and "Black and Tan Fantasy." His piece, "Creole Rhapsody," was awarded the annual prize offered by the NewYork schools of music for the best musical compositionof the year 1933, which evidently meant works of a certain class. The prize piece, "A portrayal of Negro life,"was featured by a concert of the schools on March 5, andplayed by Paul Whiteman's band. In the early summerof 1933, Ellington carried his band to Europe, and madea sensational London success.