Stevie Wonder’s song named after Duke Ellington is “Sir Duke.”
Wonder released “Sir Duke” in 1977 as a tribute to Ellington, the influential American jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader who had died in 1974. The song celebrates the emotional power of music and names several major musicians in its lyrics.
The recording appeared on Songs in the Key of Life and became one of the album’s most recognizable tracks. Its bright horn arrangement and infectious melody helped it cross from soul and funk into mainstream pop audiences.
The title is sometimes misunderstood as referring to a British aristocrat. “Sir Duke” is a respectful musical nickname for Duke Ellington. The song’s broader message is that music can remain powerful even as individual performers and musical eras pass into history.