Louis Armstrong

Sometimes, I wonder why I spend
The lonely nights
Baby, lonely nights
Dreaming of a song
Melody my memory
And I am once again with you
When our love was new, oh babe
Each kiss an inspiration
That was long ago
Now my consolation is
In the stardust of a song

Beside a garden wall
When stars are bright
You were in my arms, baby babe
The nightingale tells his fairy tale
A paradise, where roses bloom
Though I dream in vain, oh babe
In my heart, it will remain
My stardust melody
The memory of love's refrain
Mama, mmmm, love's refrain

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.

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Jazz & Blues: 36 Outstanding Tracks

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StardustLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong

Jazz & Blues: 36 Outstanding Tracks