Heart Full of Rhythm: The Big Band Years of Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong's mid-career fall from grace and dramatic resurgence are explored in the book "Heart Full of Rhythm," which features never-before-published photographs and stories culled from Armstrong's personal archives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Nearly 50 years after his passing, Louis Armstrong remains one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. His popularity among fans continues to thrive, with his later hits like "Hello, Dolly!" and "What a Wonderful World" still cherished. In the jazz community, Armstrong is revered for his groundbreaking innovations in the 1920s. However, the achievements of his middle years are equally remarkable and often overlooked.

Between 1929 and 1947, Armstrong transformed himself from a little-known trumpeter in Chicago to an internationally renowned pop star. His influence extended to the art of American pop singing, producing some of his most recognizable hits, including "Jeepers Creepers" and "When You're Smiling."

Author Ricky Riccardi delves into this transformative era in his book, "Heart Full of Rhythm: The Louis Armstrong Story." Through extensive research and access to Armstrong's personal archives, Riccardi paints a comprehensive picture of the trumpeter's mid-career fall from grace and his dramatic resurgence. The book features never-before-published photographs and stories that shed light on Armstrong's life and career.

Armstrong's journey during this period was not without its challenges. He faced racist performance reviews, was held up at gunpoint by gangsters, struggled with an overworked embouchure, and was even arrested for marijuana possession. Despite these obstacles, Armstrong's resilience and talent allowed him to overcome these setbacks and emerge as the first King of Pop.

"Heart Full of Rhythm" is a captivating and insightful account of the life and career of Louis Armstrong. It provides a deeper understanding of the man behind the music and his impact on the world of jazz and popular culture. Whether you are a fan of Armstrong or a music enthusiast, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of American music.

Weight: 756g
Dimension: 167 x 242 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190914110