On stage or off, he was "endearing, carefree ambiance that contrasted greatly with the bravura exhibitions of technique from earlier decades" (69). By the 1950s, everyone knew who Louis Armstrong was and it is safe to say he was an international celebrity. He was more than just a jazz great -- he was an "icon to musicians and lovers of jazz" (Smithsonian) because of his style and incredible individuality. Armstrong also enjoyed success later in life. In 1964, his version of the song, Hello Dolly, knocked the Beatles out of the number one spot on the record charts. It's a Wonderful World is another tune that is popular today because of its message of hope for life and the world, although Armstrong did not write the lyrics to this song.

Louis Armstrong did not dominate the jazz world for 50 years for no reason at all. He remained popular and...
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