Louis Armstrong (1901-1971), affectionately known as “Satchmo” (short for Satchel Mouth) was arguably the most famous and beloved black entertainer of the 20th century. A native of New Orleans (after whom the city’s airport is named) he was one of the first black musicians to be accepted into the upper echelons of white society.
Other black entertainers, such as Sammy Davis Junior or Sidney Poitier, might have played a more significant role in the civil rights movement. And other singers (such as Nat King Cole) were probably more highly regarded in terms of their vocal range and flexibility, but Armstrong seems to command unique affection.
- epiclectic / Foter / CC BY-ND
Perhaps Armstrong transcended race not only because of his extraordinary singing and trumpeting skills but also thanks to his exuberant, larger-than-life personality. Who can forget Armstrong’s rendition of The Bare Necessities (memorably sung in the film The Jungle Book) or his affectionate belting out of the song Hello, Dolly! in the Barbra Streisand film? His inimitable rasping voice, once heard, can never be forgotten and his unique physical attributes (including, of course, his very large mouth!) ensured that he could play the trumpet like no one else alive. So it was that by the end of his career in the 1960s, Armstrong was widely regarded as a profound influence on popular music in general.
Armstrong died of a heart attack in his sleep on July 6, 1971 at the age of 69, 11 months after playing a famous show at the Waldorf-Astoria’s Empire Room. Pallbearers included Bing Crosby (on whom he had a particular influence) Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Pearl Bailey and Frank Sinatra.
Today, over 40 years after his passing, New Orleans continues to celebrate the legacy of Louis Armstrong by hosting the annual Satchmo Summerfest. This years’ Satchmo SummerFest 2013 will take place over the weekend of August 2-4, primarily on the grounds of the Old U.S. Mint, conveniently situated on the edge of the French Quarter between the French Market and Esplanade Avenue. The festival is free and open to the public.
Outdoor events at SatchmoFest feature live bands on several stages, starring some of New Orleans’ top musicians. Many of them will pay their tributes to Armstrong and his music. Some of New Orleans’ world-famous culinary delicacies will be offered for sale in and around the festival site, while refreshing Southern-style beverages and other soft drinks will keep you cool and hydrated. A complete program is available here.
New Orleans is a great place to be in the summer, especially when the warm southern air is filled with the sounds of Dixieland music, the genre that Armstrong did so much to popularize. So the city looks forward to greeting you.
If you need a ride around town, want to reach one of the events or need to get to a restaurant or hotel – My airport trip can help you. Simply give us a call at (877) 592-2226 and we will take care of the rest.