Louis: The Louis Armstrong Story, 1900-1971

by Max Jones, John Chilton

Boston:: Little Brown,, 1971.. Near fine in near fine dust jacket.. First US printing. An account of the musician who towered over the world of jazz for 50 years. Illustrated with many photographs. Chronology, film list, index. Slightly oversized. 256 pages.

Genres: Biography, Music, Jazz

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1972

Reviews

[Lisa]

Doesn't seem to be well-researched. Writer's style didn't keep my interest.
I look forward to reading a biography that's more recently written.

[Shane Garnett]

I am deeply enthralled and smitten with Louis' music. The book was a somewhat enjoyable companion to my current listening. Louis' story was definitely told, and quite well. The book drew upon the comments of others very heavily, sourcing its claims quite well and sort of attempting to offer some guidance in interpreting the many myths and slide dalliances from truth in Louis' story over the decades. It also features an entire passage written by Louis, a detailed section entitled 'Louis on Record' where it outlines his recording output in some detail for most of his career, giving commentary on the music itself as well as Louis' musical development and artistry along the way.

The only draw back is that it sometimes focused too heavily on the how's, what's, where's, why's of recording dates and touring schedules - which could have been covered off in a detailed discography at the back (as this book sort of does) - and not enough time focusing on the day to day stuff, the little anecdotes and, if you like, legends - however true or not. They should never state something that is unproven without saying so, but legends are a lot of fun and they tend to avoid it.

It left me wanting more, so I will seeking some of the books Louis wrote as well as a book on the Hot Five & Sevens recordings.

[Kari]

Offers some good detail and recognition of variances in stories and myths about Armstrong, but gets lost in minutia.