What style is this Louis Armstrong song?

The Stylistic Analysis of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World”

Louis Armstrong, one of the most influential figures in jazz history, captivated audiences with his distinctive voice and exceptional trumpet playing. His song “What a Wonderful World” stands as a testament to his versatility and ability to transcend musical boundaries. In this article, we will delve into the stylistic elements that define this iconic song.

1. Louis Armstrong’s Career and Musical Roots

Louis Armstrong, also known as “Satchmo,” was a legendary New Orleans singer and trumpeter. He emerged as a prominent figure in the jazz scene during the 1920s and played a pivotal role in popularizing the Dixieland-style jazz. His career spanned several decades, and he left an indelible mark on the genre.

2. A Departure from Traditional Style

Unlike many of Armstrong’s previous works, “What a Wonderful World” deviates from the energetic, improvisational nature of jazz. Instead, it takes the form of a slow pop ballad, showcasing a more introspective side of Armstrong’s artistry. The song’s tempo, melody, and lyrical content create a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

3. Songwriters and Production

The song was written in 1967 by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, Armstrong’s producer at ABC Records. Thiele, recognizing the tumultuous times of the era, sought to craft a song that would provide solace and optimism amidst the social and political challenges. The collaboration between Armstrong, Weiss, and Thiele resulted in a composition that resonates deeply with audiences.

4. Recording Challenges and Persistence

The recording session for “What a Wonderful World” faced its own set of obstacles. Two takes were interrupted by the intrusive noise of passing freight trains, which were inadvertently captured by the studio microphones. Moreover, there was opposition from Larry Newton, the president of ABC, who attempted to halt the recording. However, Armstrong and Thiele persevered, determined to bring this heartfelt song to life.

5. Reception and Enduring Impact

Upon its release, “What a Wonderful World” did not achieve immediate success in the United States. Nevertheless, it found immense popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in the United Kingdom and Austria. The song topped the charts in the UK and garnered substantial sales. Its enduring impact was further solidified when it was featured in the soundtrack of the film “Good Morning Vietnam” in 1988, introducing the song to a new generation of listeners.

In conclusion, “What a Wonderful World” showcases Louis Armstrong’s versatility as an artist. The song’s departure from his traditional jazz style, combined with its uplifting message and Armstrong’s unique vocal delivery, has made it an enduring classic. It remains a testament to Armstrong’s ability to transcend musical boundaries and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.

Sources:

1. Louis Armstrong’s Iconic Ballad | uDiscover. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/what-a-wonderful-world-louis-armstrong/
2. What a Wonderful World. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://voices.pitt.edu/TeachersGuide/Unit8/WhataWonderfulWorld.htm
3. ‘What a Wonderful World’ by Louis Armstrong: The making of the jazzy pop classic. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.goldradiouk.com/news/music/louis-armstrong-what-wonderful-world-facts/

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World”

What is the musical style of “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong?

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong is a slow pop ballad. It differs from Armstrong’s earlier works and showcases a more contemplative and reflective style.

How does “What a Wonderful World” compare to Louis Armstrong’s earlier jazz recordings?

“What a Wonderful World” deviates from Armstrong’s traditional jazz style. While he was renowned for his contributions to Dixieland-style jazz in the 1920s, this song takes on a slower tempo and a more introspective approach, highlighting Armstrong’s versatility as an artist.

Who were the songwriters and producers behind “What a Wonderful World”?

The song was written by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele. Bob Thiele, who served as Armstrong’s producer at ABC Records, played a crucial role in bringing the song to life and capturing its essence.

What challenges were faced during the recording of “What a Wonderful World”?

The recording session for “What a Wonderful World” encountered several challenges. Two takes had to be abandoned due to loud whistles from passing freight trains that were picked up by the studio microphones. Additionally, there was resistance from Larry Newton, the president of ABC, who initially opposed the recording. However, Armstrong and Thiele persisted and managed to complete the recording.

How was “What a Wonderful World” received upon its release?

Initially, “What a Wonderful World” did not achieve significant success in the United States. However, it gained tremendous popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in the United Kingdom and Austria. The song reached number one on the UK charts and enjoyed a 29-week chart run, selling 600,000 copies.

Did “What a Wonderful World” have a lasting impact?

Yes, “What a Wonderful World” has had a lasting impact. While it initially had modest success, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity in 1988 when it was featured on the soundtrack of the film “Good Morning Vietnam.” This exposure introduced the song to a new generation of listeners and further solidified its status as a timeless classic.