He was born poor, died rich, and never hurt anyone along the way.–Duke Ellington
It has been 47 years since the world lost Louis Armstrong. Many saw him as the world’s most beloved entertainer. Others called him the single most important musician in the history of jazz.
I believe he was both.
Armstrong was a human ray of sunshine. He had a mile-wide smile, gravelly voice, infectious laugh. and unparalleled way with a song. His joyous rendition of “Hello, Dolly!,” recorded when he was in his 60s, momentarily ended the Beatles’ three-month reign at the top of the singles chart.
We watched a lot of Disney movies when the girls were little. The Jungle Book was one of our favorites. Louis Armstrong provided the voice for one of the most captivating characters, King Louis.
Bob Thiele (as “George Douglas”) and George David Weiss wrote the pop ballad “What a Wonderful World“. It was first recorded by Louis Armstrong and released in 1967 as a single, which topped the pop charts in the United Kingdom. Armstrong’s recording was inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
What a Wonderful World is a beautiful love song to our planet, and it focuses on the positive. It is a gentle reminder for the listener to count blessings and be grateful. Thank you, Brad, for posting.
I love his music and his voice. So calming.
Sharon Tinnon and I have both loved “What. wonderful Life”, since our son Steve sand in it elementary school choir st Stone Oak ElemtsrynScholl (San Antonio / NEISD) , 20+ years ago!
We also loved watching the animated Jungle Book with our sons Dave and Steve nearly 25 years ago. I did not realize the deep voice of King Louie was voiced by Louie Armstrong. They even have the same name, Louie!
*sang – not “sand”….