Side by Side (Duke Ellington and Johnny Hodges album)

Side by Side is a collaborative studio album by American jazz musicians Duke Ellington and Johnny Hodges, released in 1959 on the Verve label. The album features compositions primarily written or co-written by Ellington, Hodges, and Billy Strayhorn, and is notable for showcasing the distinct and complementary alto saxophone styles of Hodges alongside Ellington's signature piano work and arrangements.

The recording sessions involved a rotating cast of prominent jazz sidemen, including Harry "Sweets" Edison, Roy Eldridge, Jo Jones, Sam Woodyard, and Al Hall, among others. This rotating cast allowed for a variety of sonic textures and interpretations of the material. Some tracks feature a larger ensemble sound, while others adopt a more intimate, small-group setting.

The album's title, Side by Side, reflects the equal billing and collaborative spirit between Ellington and Hodges, despite their established positions as bandleader and featured soloist, respectively. It underscores the synergistic relationship between the two musicians and their ability to create a cohesive and compelling musical experience.

The album is generally considered a highlight in both Ellington's and Hodges' discographies, and a significant contribution to the history of jazz collaboration. Its enduring appeal lies in the high quality of the compositions, the exceptional musicianship, and the nuanced interplay between Ellington and Hodges' signature sounds.