The Trumpet That Spoke for a Generation: The Untold Story of Louis Armstrong’s “Black and Blue” in 1965 Berlin

Dylan Kickham

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Louis Armstrong’s music has always made a deep impact on people and his performances over the years show just how talented and unique he was as an artist. One unforgettable performance happened in 1965 in Berlin where Armstrong and his All-Stars played Black and Blue. This powerful song written in 1929, talks about the struggles Black Americans faced and the pain of being treated unfairly in a society that often discriminated against them.

In this performance, Armstrong is joined by his amazing All-Stars, including Arvell Shaw on bass, Eddie Shu on clarinet, and Danny Barcelona on drums. The way they all play together shows how well they connect and the music flows with the energy and passion that jazz is known for. Armstrong’s powerful trumpet and heartfelt singing stand out making Black and Blue not just a song about struggle but also a call for change. It’s a song that still speaks to us today, reminding us how important equality and justice are.

Louis Armstrong – Black And Blue

On the other hand Armstrong’s 1968 performance of What A Wonderful World at BBC Studios shows a completely different side of him. This classic song expresses Armstrong’s love for the small, beautiful things in life like seeing a rainbow or hearing babies cry. Recorded for the Show of the Week – Louis Armstrong program on BBC TV, this performance is filled with warmth and happiness making the audience clap and cheer.

The lyrics of What A Wonderful World highlight the simple, meaningful things around us like the colors in the sky and the kindness of friends. Armstrong’s performance of the song feels personal, reminding all to appreciate the beauty in the world, even when times are tough. His deep voice brings sincerity and emotion to the song which is why it’s one of his most loved songs.

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Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (At The BBC)

Armstrong had the ability to express both the sadness and joy of life through his music, which is why he was such a versatile artist. Whether he was singing a powerful song like Black and Blue that talks about important social issues, or celebrating life with “What A Wonderful World,” Armstrong had a special way of connecting with his audience. His music continues to inspire and influence many generations of listeners and musicians and his impact on jazz and popular music is undeniable.

If you enjoyed these powerful performances, be sure to follow Louis Armstrong on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to continue experiencing his timeless music. His unique voice and brilliant trumpet playing continue to inspire people of all ages and by following his pages you can stay connected to the magic he created throughout his legendary career. 

Louis Armstrong – A Kiss To Build A Dream On (Live At The BBC)