louis armstrong

Among the most influential jazz musicians was Louis Armstrong (1901-1971).

Growing up in New Orleans during his childhood, he lived in a home for delinquent black youth and eventually joined the band and chorus there. Around this time, he also first learned to play the cornet. During his teenage years, signs of his bright musical future began to appear as he played with Kid Ory's band and even joined an orchestra in 1920. Soon afterwards, Armstrong moved on to King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band in Chicago, marking the beginning of his career as he made his first recording in 1923. He was a busy and productive man, playing with different musicians in different cities and even recording under his own name starting in 1925. Around this time he had become a well-respected musician and was dubbed as the "World's Greatest Trumpet Player." Armstrong now focused on making recordings with the Hot Five and the Hot Seven, which are still considered to be among the greatest classics in the jazz world. He was a monumental influence in redefining jazz as not just ensemble-oriented but also solo music. Throughout the 1930s, Armstrong's fame continued to grow, and he spent his time playing with his own band and continued making recordings that were constantly praised by the public. 1932 was the year when he first toured internationally, truly indicating his popularity at the time. 

Up to this point, his career had blossomed successfully – however, he still would not reach the height of his career until later on. Armstrong would earn the title "Ambassador of Goodwill" as a result of his world tours during the 1950s and 60s, and in 1964 he would eventually have his biggest hit with "Hello, Dolly." 

Just to name a few, his notable recordings include “West End Blues,” “Muggles,” and “Tight Like This.”