Louis Armstrong

Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
And miss it each night and day?
I know I’m not wrong, the feeling's getting stronger
The longer I stay away

Miss the moss-covered vines, the tall sugar pines
Where mockingbirds used to sing
And I'd like to see the lazy Mississippi
A-hurrying into spring

Oh the Mardi Gras, the memories
Of Creoles' tunes that filled the air
I dream of oleanders in June
And soon I'm wishing that I were there

Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
When that's where you left your heart?
And there's something more, I miss the one I care for
More than I miss New Orleans

Louis Armstrong, known throughout his lengthy career by nicknames like “Satchmo”, “Pops” and simply “Louie”, was a trumpeter, composer, singer and occasional actor, as well as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz.

Born and raised in New Orleans, where jazz itself is alleged to have began, Armstrong started his career in 1918, playing the cornet in brass bands and riverboats along the Mississippi River. There, he caught the attention of his future mentor, King Oliver, joining his band in Chicago, where he networked with other popular jazz musicians like Hoagy Carmichael and his first wife Lil Hardin Armstrong.

In 1924, Louie relocated to New York City playing for the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra. It was at this time he switched over from cornet to trumpet in order to blend in better with the other musicians in his section. It was also when he developed his emotional playing style, which included singing and telling tales of his life back in New Orleans.

more tracks from the album

Jazz & Blues: 36 Outstanding Tracks

From the albums

Sugar
Blues for Yesterday (1999)
Jazz & Blues: 36 Outstanding Tracks (2001)
Hurricane Relief: Come Together Now (2005)

Louis Armstrong popular songs

Do You Know What It Means To Miss New OrleansLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong

Jazz & Blues: 36 Outstanding Tracks