remembering Louis Armstrong on his birthday

August 4, 1901: Louis Armstrong (August 4, 1901 – July 6, 1971)

Louis Daniel Armstrong (August 4, 1901 – July 6, 1971) was a famous American jazz and blues trumpet player and singer. Known by nicknames like "Satchmo" and "Pops," he was one of the most influential figures in jazz history, with a career that lasted over 50 years. Louis won many awards during his life, including a Grammy Award in 1965 for his famous song "Hello, Dolly!" and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award after he died. His music influenced many different styles, earning him a spot in the Jazz, Rock and Roll, and Rhythm & Blues Halls of Fame.

According to Wikipedia: Armstrong's best known songs include "What a Wonderful World", "La Vie en rose", "Hello, Dolly!", "On the Sunny Side of the Street", "Dream a Little Dream of Me", "When You're Smiling", and "When the Saints Go Marching In". He collaborated with Ella Fitzgerald, producing three records together: Ella and Louis (1956), Ella and Louis Again (1957), and Porgy and Bess (1959). He also appeared in films such as A Rhapsody in Black and Blue (1932), Cabin in the Sky (1943), High Society (1956), Paris Blues (1961), A Man Called Adam (1966), and Hello, Dolly! (1969).

With his instantly recognizable, rich, gravelly voice, Armstrong was also an influential singer and skillful improviser. He was also skilled at scat singing. By the end of Armstrong's life, his influence had spread to popular music.

Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World (At The BBC)

Ministry & Co-Conspirators - What A Wonderful World

Joey Ramone - What A Wonderful World