Caption
Cornetist and singer, Louis Armstrong.
Number
2984
Prompt
Louis Armstrong's eyes could twinkle and a broad, friendly smile could spread across his face. His fingers on the cornet could subtly press the valves while he swings his trumpet left and right to address all of the audience.
Body
This stamp honors the legendary Louis Armstrong (1901-1971), a giant of jazz and a cultural icon. Armstrong's innovative approach to melody and rhythm on the cornet and trumpet, coupled with his inventive scat singing, transformed jazz from a regional dance music into a popular art form. His recordings with his Hot Five and Hot Seven groups in the 1920s are considered masterpieces of early jazz. Beyond his musical genius, Armstrong's warm personality and constant touring made him a goodwill ambassador for the United States around the world.