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James Spaulding Plays the Legacy of Duke Ellington is an album by saxophonist James Spaulding featuring compositions by Duke Ellington which was recorded in 1976 and released on the Danish Storyville label.

Despite being a top altoist and flutist since at least the mid-’60s, when he played with Freddie Hubbard’s band, James Spaulding did not get his recording debut as a leader until this 1976 LP. Spaulding, on various flutes, piccolo, soprano and alto, performs eight songs associated with Duke Ellington, including “Take the ‘A’ Train” (a Billy Strayhorn composition mistakenly co-credited in the liners to Duke), “Come Sunday,” an impressive flute showcase on “Sophisticated Lady” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing.” Spaulding is joined by pianist Cedar Walton, a young Steve Nelson on vibes, bassist Sam Jones, drummer Billy Higgins and percussionist Mtume. The most unusual aspect of this set is that Avery Brooks (who has a deep baritone that Ellington might have liked) sings four of the eight songs. A sincere tribute (Scott Yanow/AllMusic).

Track listing:
All compositions by Duke Ellington except where noted

“Take the “A” Train” (Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn) – 4:34
“In a Sentimental Mood” – 5:56
“Come Sunday” – 5:31
“Caravan” (Ellington, Juan Tizol) – 5:30
“I Love You Madly” – 2:13
“Lucky So and So” (Ellington, Mack David) – 4:36
“Sophisticated Lady” – 6:22
“It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” – 7:03

Personnel:
James Spaulding – alto saxophone, flute, piccolo, soprano saxophone, bass flute
Cedar Walton – piano
Steve Nelson – vibraphone
Sam Jones – bass
Billy Higgins – drums
Mtume – percussion
Avery Brooks – vocals (tracks 3, 4, 5 & 7)

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Released: 1977
Recorded: December 1 & 2, 1976
Studio: Blank Studios, New York City
Length: 41:45
Label: Storyville
JS-140
Producer: Marty Cann