Seger Pillot Ellis, born on July 4, 1904, in Houston, Texas, was a prominent American jazz pianist and vocalist known for his contributions to early jazz and popular music. He began his musical career in the early 1920s, performing as a pianist for a local Houston radio station, later known as KPRC. In 1925, Ellis joined the Lloyd Finlay Orchestra for a recording session with Victor Records, where he was given the opportunity to record piano solos. Although initial recordings were unissued, his compositions "Prairie Blues" and "Sentimental Blues" became minor hits.

Ellis's career expanded as he began to incorporate singing into his performances, leading to vocal recordings with Columbia and OKeh Records. He collaborated with notable jazz musicians such as Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Joe Venuti, Eddie Lang, and Louis Armstrong. His unique alto voice and musical style earned him significant popularity, prompting OKeh Records to create a special custom label for his records.

In the late 1930s, Ellis formed his own big band, the "Choirs of Brass Orchestra," featuring his wife, Irene Taylor, as a vocalist. He continued to evolve as a musician, focusing on songwriting and creating compositions like "You're All I Want for Christmas," recorded by Bing Crosby, and "Gene's Boogie," recorded by Gene Krupa.

Ellis's career included managing the Mills Brothers and performing with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra. He also made brief appearances in films, notably collaborating with director Ida Lupino. After serving in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, Ellis returned to Texas, where he shifted his focus to songwriting and the nightclub business.

Seger Ellis passed away on September 29, 1995, in Houston, Texas, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in American jazz and popular music.