 Leaving the band in 1923 to study medicine, he returned in 1928 to perform on a number of Ellington's most recognizable pieces during Ellington's stint at the Cotton Club, including "Black Beauty", "Black and Tan", and "Mood Indigo".His sound provided a contrast with Bubber Miley, Ellington's other trumpeter during the period.He had a unique broad open tone of ample depth and sonority despite the elegant, soft quality of his muted play.