Question

Question #2: A performer makes a musical mark by playing his/her instrument or singing in a special way. Throughout musical history, the way that instruments are played has radically changed. For example, would Mozart have recognized “Pine Top” Smith’s boogie-woogie piano as the same instrument that he wrote piano concerti for? Choose one performer from the list below and describe his/her impact on musical history.

Be sure to include in your discussion:
background of the musical time in which each performer lived
important events in the performer’s life
the style(s) of music each performer is best known for
if relevant, brief description of specific work(s)

Possible Choices:
1.Louis Armstrong (Jazz)
2.Gertrude "Ma" Rainey (Blues)
3.James Brown (Soul)
4.Willie Nelson (Country)
5.Bill Monroe (Bluegrass)
6.Elvis Presley (Rock)
7.Queen Latifah (Hip-Hop)
8.A musical artist of your choice

Answer 1

Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) was an American jazz trumpeter, singer, and influential figure in the development of jazz way back when. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Armstrong grew up in a culturally diverse and musically rich environment that shaped his unique style.

Background of the musical time:

Armstrong lived in the early 20th century, which was a period of significant cultural and social changes in the United States. Jazz emerged during this time, evolving from the blues and ragtime music styles. It was an era of experimentation and innovation in music, which eventually led to the establishment of jazz as a distinct and popular genre.

Important events in the performer's life:

- At a young age, Armstrong was exposed to various musical styles, including blues, gospel, and brass band music.

- In the 1920s, he moved to Chicago and joined Joe "King" Oliver's Creole Jazz Band, which marked the beginning of his professional career.

- In the late 1920s, Armstrong formed the Hot Five and Hot Seven ensembles, recording a series of influential and groundbreaking jazz records.

- Armstrong's career took off in the 1930s and 1940s, when he became an international star and played with leading jazz musicians of the time.

- Throughout his life, Armstrong appeared in numerous films and television shows, contributing to the popularization of jazz music worldwide.

The style or styles of music each performer is best known for:

Louis Armstrong is best known for his contributions to jazz, particularly as a trumpeter and singer. His distinctively raspy voice and innovative trumpet playing helped shape the development of jazz as an art form. Armstrong's improvisational skills and ability to reinterpret melodies had a profound impact on the evolution of jazz and its various subgenres.

Specific work(s):

Here are some of Louis Armstrong's most famous works include "What a Wonderful World," "Hello, Dolly!," "West End Blues," and "Stardust." These songs showcase Armstrong's unique trumpet playing, singing style, and ability to convey emotions through his music.

In conclusion, Louis Armstrong's impact on musical history is huge. His innovative approach to playing the trumpet, distinctive singing style, and contribution to the development of jazz as a genre have made him one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.