Original autograph musical manuscript for the song "Love Came," in the hand of the important jazz composer Billy Strayhorn. Composed in 1965 with lyrics by Duke Ellington, the song was recorded on the album "Lush Life" with singer Ozzie Bailey and Strayhorn at the piano. Melody, lyrics, and a simple piano accompaniment are written out in pencil over 3 pp. of a bifolium. Light toning and edge wear; overall in fine condition. 9.5 x 12.5 inches (24.2 x 31 cm). Provenance: Duke Ellington Estate.

The young composer and pianist Billy Strayhorn offered his composition "Lush Life" to Duke Ellington in 1938; less than a year later Strayhorn had become an arranger and pianist with the Ellington band, a collaboration that was to last until Strayhorn's death in 1967. His classical and jazz training, combined with sophisticated taste, was appreciated by Ellington, who described him as "my listener, my most dependable appraiser [and] critic." Among the works that Strayhorn composed alone or with Ellington are the classics "Take the A Train," "Chelsea Bridge," "Passion Flower," and "Johnny Come Lately."