Every Friday night, The Improv Cafe Radio Station invites you to step back in time and swing with the big bands. This week, we are spotlighting one of the most iconic performances in jazz history – Louis Armstrong and His All Stars live at Chicago’s Medina Temple in 1956. Tune in for an unforgettable evening of classic jazz that will transport you to the golden age of big band music.
The Great Chicago Concert: A Jazz Milestone, On June 1, 1956, Louis Armstrong and His All Stars graced the stage of Chicago’s Medina Temple, delivering a performance that has since become a hallmark of jazz excellence. Armstrong, often hailed as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, led his band through a night of spirited improvisations, soulful solos, and infectious rhythms that captivated the audience. The All-Star Lineup Armstrong’s ensemble for this memorable night included some of the most celebrated musicians of the era:
- Louis Armstrong: Trumpet & Vocals
- Trummy Young: Trombone
- Edmond Hall: Clarinet
- Billy Kyle: Piano
- Dale Jones: Bass
- Barrett Deems: Drums
- Velma Middleton: Vocals
Each member of the All Stars brought their unique talent and style to the stage, creating a synergy that elevated the concert to legendary status. Highlights from Medina Temple, The 1956 concert at Medina Temple showcased Armstrong’s extraordinary ability to blend technical mastery with emotive performance. Listeners were treated to standout tracks that have since become jazz standards, featuring dynamic solos from each band member and Armstrong’s unmistakable trumpet and vocal prowess. The interplay between the musicians, particularly the duets with Velma Middleton, highlighted the group’s exceptional cohesion and versatility.
Bonus Broadcasts: In addition to the Medina Temple performance, this special release includes three complete broadcasts featuring the same stellar lineup:
- Live from Basin Street East, New York:
- Dates: June 23, June 25, and June 26, 1956.
- These recordings capture the All Stars in top form, bringing their Chicago magic to the vibrant jazz scene of New York City.
- The Ed Sullivan Show:
- Date: July 15, 1956.
- Armstrong and his band brought their infectious energy to television screens across America, further cementing their legacy in the annals of jazz history.
The Swing with the Big Bands show on The Improv Cafe Radio Station is more than just a radio broadcast; it’s a celebration of jazz heritage and a tribute to the legends who shaped the genre. This week’s feature on Louis Armstrong and His All Stars offers a rare opportunity to experience the timeless brilliance of one of jazz’s greatest live performances.
Whether you’re a longtime jazz aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the genre, this broadcast promises to be a captivating journey into the heart of jazz. So, mark your calendar for Friday night and prepare to swing with the big bands. Let the soulful sounds of Louis Armstrong and His All Stars fill your evening with joy, nostalgia, and pure musical genius.
CD 1 TOTAL TIME: 78:11
01 MEDLEY: FLEE AS A BIRD TO THE MOUNTAIN/OH, DIDN’T HE RAMBLE
02 MEDLEY: MEMPHIS BLUES/FRANKIE AND JOHNNY/TIGER RAG
03 DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO MISS NEW ORLEANS
04 BASIN STREET BLUES
05 BLACK AND BLUE
06 WEST END BLUES
07 ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET
08 STRUTTIN’ WITH SOME BARBECUE
09 WHEN IT’S SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH
10 MEDLEY: MANHATTAN/WHEN IT’S SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH
11 BACK HOME AGAIN IN INDIANA
12 THE GYPSY
13 THE FAITHFUL HUSSAR
14 ROCKIN’ CHAIR
15 THE BUCKET’S GOT A HOLE IN IT
16 PERDIDO
17 CLARINET MERMALADE
CD 2 TOTAL TIME: 78:06
01 MEDLEY: TENDERLY/YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE
02 STOMPIN’ AT THE SAVOY
03 MARGIE
04 BIG MAMA’S BACK IN TOWN
05 THAT’S MY DESIRE
06 KO KO MO (I LOVE YOU SO)
07 WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN
08 THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER
09 WHEN IT’S SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH (*)
10 BACK HOME AGAIN IN INDIANA (*)
11 SOMEDAY YOU’LL BE SORRY (*)
12 DARDANELLA (*)
13 OLE MISS (*)
14 A KISS TO BUILD A DREAM ON (*)
15 WHEN IT’S SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH (*)
16 YOU CAN DEPEND ON ME (*)
17 BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE (*)
18 MUSKRAT RAMBLE (*)
19 THE FAITHFUL HUSSAR (*)
20 STOMPIN’ AT THE SAVOY (*)
21 BASIN STREET BLUES (*)
(*) BONUS TRACKS
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