On this day in 1901, musician Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans, Louisiana

On this day in 1901, musician Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. A stupendous trumpeter and vocalist, he is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz music. 🎺🎶🎷🎶🎺

Born in one of the poorest neighborhoods of New Orleans to a single mother, Armstrong’s beginnings were not privileged. As a child, he had to work hard to help support his family, but showed an incredible aptitude for music, buying his first horn at age seven.

As a successful adult, some of his most famous records include “What a Wonderful World,” “When You’re Smiling,” and “Jeepers Creepers.” With “Hello, Dolly!” in 1964, he became the oldest artist in American history to hit number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 list. Bing Crosby said of him, “He is the beginning and the end of music in America.”

Did you know? As a child, Armstrong spent time living with and working for a Jewish-Lithuanian family, the Karnofskys, who mentored and encouraged him. To honor and remember them, Armstrong wore a Star of David throughout his adult life. ✡️

Louis Armstrong, Woodward’s Studio, c. 1928