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Conversation 467-035

TapeTape 467StartWednesday, March 17, 1971 at 3:43 PMEndWednesday, March 17, 1971 at 3:44 PMTape start time02:13:56Tape end time02:15:40ParticipantsNixon, Richard M. (President);  Ellington, Edna (Thompson)Recording deviceOval Office
AI Summary

President Nixon contacted Edna Ellington to express his formal congratulations regarding Duke Ellington’s recent election to the Royal Swedish Academy of Music. The President noted the historical significance of the honor, acknowledging it as a rare achievement for a popular musician. During the brief exchange, Nixon reflected fondly on the Duke's prior performance at the White House and requested that his sentiments be conveyed to him.

Duke EllingtonRoyal Swedish Academy of MusicWhite House cultural eventsPresidential commendations
AudioNARA Description

On March 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Edna (Thompson) Ellington met in the Oval Office of the White House from 3:43 pm to 3:44 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 467-035 of the White House Tapes.

Nixon Library Finding Aid
Conversation No. 467-35

Date: March 17, 1971
Time: 3:43 pm - 3:44 pm
Location: Oval Office

The President talked with Edna (Thompson) Ellington

     Edward K. (“Duke”) Ellington’s election to the Royal Swedish Academy of Music
         -President’s congratulations

     E. K. Ellington’s White House appearance

     President’s congratulations
Transcript (AI-Generated)

This transcript was generated automatically by AI and has not been reviewed for accuracy. Do not cite this transcript as authoritative. Consult the Finding Aid above for verified information.

Oh, let's see.
Who does he have on?
See who it is.
I'm not sure.
I just called to congratulate the Duke on his being received a membership in the Royal Swedish Academy of Music.
Isn't that a great thing?
I understand it's the first time a popular musician has ever been honored by the Academy.
There are only 50 of them, so we're glad it's one of ours.
I will always remember that evening in the White House, and I just want to let you know that when I saw this in my briefing file, I said, well, I've got to give him a call.
I just want to wish him the best.
That's all right.
You get the message.
You'll get it better than he will.
Thank you.
Bye.
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