The story behind puzzle No. 15
Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five · Single · Okeh · 1928
Before the band plays a note, Louis Armstrong plays alone: a fanfare of trumpet that tumbles down and hangs in the air. Those few seconds are still among the most famous in jazz.
Armstrong recorded West End Blues with his Hot Five on June 28, 1928. The tune was written by his mentor, King Oliver, who had recorded it himself earlier that month. Armstrong's version became far more famous, and Oliver later borrowed from Armstrong's arrangement when he recorded it again.
Composer and scholar Gunther Schuller called the opening cadenza one of the defining moments of early jazz.
After the cadenza, listen for Armstrong singing wordless scat phrases that trade back and forth with Jimmy Strong's low clarinet. Earl Hines follows with a piano solo that critics have praised for its original harmony and phrasing. At the end, Armstrong holds one high note for about 12 seconds before Zutty Singleton closes it with a click of the cymbals.
Who's on it
Keep listening
Play King Oliver's own 1928 version next, then return to Armstrong's. The difference is the moment jazz soloing grew up.
As an Amazon Associate, Liner Note earns from qualifying purchases.