Jazz Artists of the
Harlem Renaissance
Black experience in the United States led to the birth of Jazz which fused African and European musical traditions. Jazz got its rhythm, feel, blues quality, and tradition of playing an instrument in your own expressive way from African music while it got its harmony and instruments such as the saxophone, trumpet, and piano from European music. Slave work songs, spirituals, blues, brass band music, and ragtime all helped Jazz evolve into what it was, especially during the Harlem Renaissance
Louis Armstrong (1901-1971)
Cab Calloway (1907-1994)
Trumpeter, bandleader, singer, and soloist Louis Armstrong is considered to be one of the most influential Jazz artists in history. Armstrong rose to fame in the 1920's where he influenced many musicians with his trumpet style and unique vocals like his scat singing. With an extensive discography, most of Armstrong's work is considered to be the most influential and important recordings of Jazz history. Some of the songs that he is most well known for are Star Dust , La Vie En Rose and What a Wonderful World.
Cab Calloway was a singer and bandleader who was born in Rochester, New York in 1907. Before landing a regular spot at the famous Cotton Club in Harlem, Calloway had to learn the art of scat singing. His song Minnie the Moocher was widely successful which was given a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1999. Calloway was one of the most popular entertainers of the 1930's and 40's where he appeared on stage and films.
Jacqueline Aguirre