JAZZ MUSICIANS
LOUIS ARMSTRONG
Originating from New Orleans, Armstrong is considered the most important improviser in jazz. He introduced swing —emphasizing a note that comes right before the beat that’s supposed to be accented — which is a well-known trait of jazz. His unique style of playing is imitated by musicians even now.
CAB CALLOWAY
Calloway's singing talents and ability to sing scat-jive vocals, lyric improvisation without using any words that make sense, made him an influence of present popular music.
DUKE ELLINGTON
Ellington and his orchestra surpassed racial barriers when performing in theaters and hotels that did not allow blacks.
BLUES MUSICIAN
BESSIE SMITH
Smith is known as the “Empress of the Blues” because of the power she emanated and vigor she used when singing. She was the classical blues singer because of her incredible voice.