Conversation so far:
What was Duke Ellington's first gig?
Duke Ellington started to play gigs in cafés and clubs
Where was Duke Ellington's first gig?
Duke Ellington's first gig was around Washington, D.C.
How long did Duke Ellington play in Harlem?
For almost fifty years Duke Elllington toured the world as a band leader and piano player.
What did Duke Ellington do in Washington D.C.?
Duke Ellington played throughout the Washington, D.C. area for private society balls and embassy parties.
Was Duke Ellington successful?
Duke Ellington was noted for his inventive use of the orchestra, or big band, and for his eloquence and charisma. He was awarded a Pulitzer Prize Special Award for music.

Question: Did he have a band?
Self-contained rewrite: Did Duke Ellington have a band?