How many albums has Louis Armstrong released?

Where should I start with Louis Armstrong?

• What are some good collections, albums, live performances?

• Answer:

  (just a brief intro, if you don't feel like reading, you can skip to the list below) Because of the length, the richness and the historic importance of Louis' musical career, I would suggest you start with as many albums/songs showcasing different facets of his career, as possible. That will give you a feeling of what you love the most about him and his music. Is it the trumpet playing of the skillful young Armstrong, or that of the wise and powerful old one? Maybe it's the singing. Maybe it's the collaborations. Trust me, there's a great deal to love and appreciate. And after that comes the best part: explore it further, and savor every moment. Here's a list. I'm listing albums, and specific songs: Hot Fives (and Hot Seven) recordings The young Louis Armstrong, making history. Louis Armstrong Big Band recordings This period includes some of my all time favorite songs. Number 1 being 'Stardust': Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy Arguably one of the best albums he ever recorded. He's playing with his All Stars band here, and they're all in their top shape. Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson An album to really appreciate his beautiful singing. Any (or better yet, all) of the Collaborations with Ella Fitzgerald Their albums were often referred to as 'sand-paper and cream'. Their personalities, their music, their singing, his trumpet and her clear voice, they all match perfectly. Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington: The Great Summit Satchmo with the Duke... Need I say more? What makes this album even more interesting is Louis' voice. Because he had a cold on the day of the session, it was especially raspy. I would also recommend: The Real Ambassadors Satch plays Fats Musical Autobiography So like I've said, try to listen to music from all periods of his life. Don't overlook anything. Some people will make you believe, that while young Louis was great, in his later years he sold out and wasn't nearly as good. I completely disagree. Listen to 'When You're Smiling' as an example. He re-recorded it 1957, and while he doesn't play with such speed as he did as a young man, his playing is so incredibly powerful. I honestly don't know anyone else, who could play with such emotion, depth and with such force. Another example of the same thing is a song called 'Just a Closer Walk With Thee', from a 1959 album, recorded with the Dukes of Dixieland. Enjoy your exploration of the music by one of the greatest figures in the music history. P.S there's also a great book on the subject of old vs young Louis Armstrong, called What a Wonderful World - The Magic of Louis Armstrong's Later Years