Ricky Riccardi

Join Ricky Riccardi, author and director of research collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, as he unpacks the remarkable life of Louis Armstrong. Discover how Armstrong's innovative trumpet playing and vocal techniques set the stage for 20th-century music and made him the first black pop star. Riccardi shares insights into Armstrong's challenging New Orleans upbringing, iconic recordings like 'West End Blues,' and his groundbreaking scat singing. Delve into the legacy that continues to influence generations of musicians.

Ricky Riccardi, Director of research collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum and author of "Stomp Off, Let's Go," dives into the transformative journey of Louis Armstrong. He shares how Armstrong's struggles and innovative spirit reshaped 20th-century music as the first Black pop star. Discussions cover pivotal recordings like 'West End Blues,' his introduction of scat singing, and the nurturing role of the Karnofsky family in his life. Riccardi emphasizes Armstrong's legacy and resilience, even in his later years, proving his lasting influence on jazz and pop.

Ricky Riccardi, Director of research collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, shares insights on how Louis Armstrong became the first Black pop star, revolutionizing music with improvisation and scat singing. He discusses Armstrong's challenging early life and breakout success. Meanwhile, Derek Thompson from The Atlantic dives into the loneliness epidemic, revealing how technology fosters isolation. He emphasizes the decline of social interaction and offers ideas for revitalizing community connections in today’s anti-social environment.