Louis Armstrong

Old Deacon Splivin, his flock was givin' the way of livin' right, yes
Said he, "No wingin', no ragtime singin', tonight", yes
Up jumped Aunt Hagar and shouted out with all her might
All her might

She said, "Oh, tain't no use to preachin'
Oh, tain't no use to teachin', each modulation of syncopation
Just tells my feet to dance and I can't refuse
When I hear the melody they call the blues, those ever lovin' blues

Just hear Aunt Hagar's children harmonizin' to that old mournful tune
It's a-like choir from on high broke loose, amen
If the Devil brought it, the good Lord sent it right down to me
Let the congregation join while I sing those lovin' Aunt Hagar's blues

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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The All-Stars Collection 1950-1956

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Aunt Hagar’s BluesLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong

The All-Stars Collection 1950-1956