ix, 383 pages, 16 unnumbered pages of plates : 20 cm

To millions of fans, Louis Armstrong was simply a great entertainer, his shining trumpet and huge grin a sign of the great evening ahead. Armstrong himself never wanted more. But the boy who began life in a New Orleans waifs' home was to become a key figure in the history of jazz and one of the most important musicians of our day. Now award-winning author James Lincoln Collier as swept away all the old myths to reveal the real Louis Armstrong, shedding new light on both his music and his much misunderstood personality. Against the vivid backdrop of New Orleans, Chicago and New York he masterfully recreates the rags-to-riches life and brilliant career of one of the great legends of jazz.--Back cover

Includes bibliographical references and index

Discography: pages 369-372

New Orleans -- Sex and race -- Growing up -- The Waifs' home -- Jazz is born in New Orleans -- The apprentice -- The professional -- Chicago -- The Creole jazz band -- New York -- Fletcher Henderson -- The blues accompanist -- The entertainer -- The Hot Fives -- The fork in the road -- Troubles and turmoil -- The first big-band records -- Europe -- Becoming a star -- Going commercial -- The All Stars -- The apotheosis of Louis Armstrong -- The last gig -- The All Star recordings -- The nature of genius

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