Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues reveals the iconic entertainer in a brilliant artistic format. Armstrong recorded conversations and kept detailed scrapbooks throughout his storied career. Documentary maker Sacha Jenkins presents the jazz master on the basis of collages, archive material and his own words. Interviews with friends, family, co-workers and admirers are heard as voice-over narrators, but not seen. Armstrong is central to a remarkable experience. He was America’s most popular musician for decades, but suffered degrading exploitation and racism. Armstrong was not allowed to stay in many of the venues where he performed. He maintained a positive public attitude despite constant racial degradation.
Louis Armstrong, affectionately known as “Satchmo” and “Pops,” was born in the mud in New Orleans in 1901. He remembers, with his trademark serious voice, always rushing to survive. Armstrong was proud to have money in his pocket. His beloved mother kept their family fed by making delicious meals from unwanted leftovers. He was taken from his mother and placed in a boys’ home for “colored waifs.” There he excelled as a trumpet player and was soon promoted to bandleader.
Negroes could only work as servants or in the red light district. Armstrong spent his childhood surrounded by musicians and prostitutes. Brutal segregation dominated their lives. Lynching, assault and intimidation by whites was common. There were signs everywhere with “colored people” in place. Armstrong learned to succeed in the white world. His excellent trumpeting skills were noticed by “King” Joe Oliver. The famed bandleader hired Armstrong, but made sure he played five yards away. He and everyone else knew the boy was a better musician.
Armstrong’s prospects have changed dramatically
Armstrong’s prospects changed dramatically when he followed the king to Chicago. He spent the roaring twenties traveling to Europe, playing sold-out clubs and most importantly recording his music. White executives, record executives and mobsters recognized Armstrong’s talent. They made a fortune while giving him a pittance. There was little he could do. One segment forced Armstrong to play at gunpoint in New York City on a whim. Again, he did what was necessary. Armstrong put his trumpet and musicianship first. He rose to fame and fame, but was always reminded of his race. An angry Armstrong recalls a “[expletive]sailor who told him he hated blacks but loved his music.
Armstrong frequently swears on tape. He is honest about his feelings and expresses himself in a candid way. Armstrong recorded everything for posterity. He knew his place in American history and wanted to shape his own legacy. We hear an unvarnished Armstrong giving clear opinions on many subjects. He avoided politics in public, but certainly had strong feelings about the racism and inequality that blacks had to endure. Jenkins endorses the recordings so the audience can understand and feel the weight of Armstrong’s words.
Addressing Racial Controversy Directly
Jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis is prominent throughout the film. He goes directly into racial controversies that followed Armstrong during the civil rights movement. Armstrong, with his big smile, shuffling dance steps and appearances in Hollywood movies, was accused of being an “Uncle Tom.” A new generation of black youth respected Armstrong’s music, but labeled it sold out. This greatly disturbed Armstrong, who financially supported civil rights advocates. Armstrong played to white audiences around the world. He walked a fine line to ensure his continued financial success. Marsalis finally understands this as his fame grew. Armstrong did what he learned as a boy in despicably racist New Orleans.
Armstrong’s kind demeanor and generosity are examined in depth. He lived for decades with his dear fourth wife, Lucille, in a humble house in Queens. These scenes are beautiful and heartwarming. Armstrong didn’t want a mansion with servants. He lived as his mother would have wanted, humbly and with respect for the neighborhood. Armstrong took Lucille everywhere. They always returned to the warmth of Queens. The film shows Armstrong’s office where he kept his tapes and records. It was his sacred space to decompress. You feel honored to see the place where Armstrong felt safe to be himself.
Music carries the film like a lovely breeze. Jazz aficionados and novices alike will be delighted with the great soundtrack. Armstrong’s incredible trumpeting and distinctive vocals permeate every frame. I almost cried during “What a Wonderful World.” You realize how influential Armstrong has been. He left an impression that will enlighten mankind for centuries. Sacha Jenkins has delivered a masterful account of a legend. Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues will fill your heart and soul, a must see.
Louis Armstrong’s Black & Blues is a production of Original Apple Movies and Imagine Documentaries. It premieres exclusively on Apple TV+ on October 28.