Louis Armstrong, a legendary jazz musician, was known by various nicknames such as “Pops,” “Satchmo,” and “Louie.” However, he referred to himself as Louis. Sacha Jenkins, a documentary filmmaker, and Jason Moran, a jazz pianist, have spent years immersed in Louis Armstrong’s recordings and artifacts. They both share a deep respect for the late musician. Jenkins mentions that he has immense respect for Armstrong, while Moran serves as the curator of the new Louis Armstrong Center in Queens, New York. The center showcases several artifacts, including Armstrong’s first passport from 1932 and his last from 1967. Moran highlights the difference in Armstrong’s passport photos, with one displaying a plaintive expression and the other exuding joy and excitement.
Despite Armstrong claiming his birthday to be the 4th of July, he was actually born on August 4, 1901. Jenkins emphasizes the importance of understanding Armstrong’s patriotism as an African American, despite the discriminatory treatment he faced in America. Jenkins explores these themes in his documentary called “Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues,” which examines how Armstrong and his trumpet navigated through challenging periods such as Prohibition, the Great Depression, world wars, and the civil rights era. Jenkins reflects on the irony of being the most famous person in the world yet facing limitations due to racial discrimination, stating that it must have been a difficult experience for Armstrong.
Louis Armstrong was not only a talented trumpet player and singer but also an actor, often playing himself in films such as “High Society,” “The Glenn Miller Story,” and “Hello Dolly.” Jenkins adds that having the real Louis Armstrong in a movie was an unparalleled honor. Jenkins explains that Armstrong’s role in these films was not solely for jazz credibility but rather to bring credibility to the overall film. Other artists, including Bing Crosby, often looked to Armstrong for inspiration in various aspects such as singing, dressing, and speaking.
In a 1955 interview with CBS News’ Edward R. Murrow, Armstrong eloquently explained the meaning of a “cat” as someone who can be anyone, from a person in the gutter to a lawyer or doctor, as long as they have a good heart and share a love for music. Armstrong grew up in the Colored Waif’s Home in New Orleans, where he discovered his love for playing the cornet, a related instrument to the trumpet. He then honed his skills with the help of Mr. Joe Oliver and demonstrated that when people support and help one another, they cannot miss.
By the time Armstrong was 21, he was living in Chicago and performing at various jazz clubs. In 1928, he recorded his influential version of “West End Blues,” which showcased his revolutionary trumpet techniques. Jenkins emphasizes that Armstrong’s influence extended beyond his performances and into his activism. He refused to play at certain hotels unless he was also allowed to stay there, which was a significant act of activism during that time.
However, in the 1960s, Armstrong faced criticism for his bright and joyful demeanor. Jenkins argues that Armstrong was misunderstood, especially among Black individuals who did not view him as a proponent of the civil rights movement. Jenkins suggests that people forgot that Armstrong pioneered many aspects of jazz and were too focused on his joyful image. Despite the critique, Armstrong’s recording of “What a Wonderful World” in 1967 became one of his most popular songs. Moran describes the song as beautiful and sentimental. In 1970, Armstrong released a remix of the song, acknowledging the challenges and hate in the world but emphasizing the power of love to bring about positive change.
The Louis Armstrong House in Queens, New York, where Armstrong and his wife, Lucille, lived, has been preserved as it was when they resided there. Moran ponders whether Armstrong and Lucille’s spirits visit the house, as musicians often consider the importance of reverberation in their work. He believes that the reverberations of Armstrong’s legacy have not faded away and are still present today.
Overall, Louis Armstrong was not just a talented musician and actor, but also a symbol of joy, love, and resilience. His influence extended far beyond his performances and continues to impact music and culture today.
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