Biography
Louis Armstrong and His Sebastian New Cotton Club Orchestra was a short-lived but significant ensemble formed in 1930 when Armstrong relocated to Los Angeles, California, to front Les Hite's orchestra, which was renamed for the Sebastian New Cotton Club where they performed. This period marked a transitional phase in Armstrong's career as he sought new opportunities amid financial challenges in Chicago and New York, drawing Hollywood crowds and radio audiences with performances featuring his innovative trumpet solos, scat singing, and charismatic vocals. The orchestra recorded several classic tracks in Los Angeles studios for Okeh and Vocalion labels, blending jazz standards with popular tunes of the era.
The band's musical style showcased Armstrong's shift toward solo improvisation and vocal expression, influencing jazz's evolution from collective ensemble playing. Key recordings like 'If I Could Be With You,' 'The Peanut Vendor,' and 'Body and Soul' highlighted his emotional trumpet work and phrasing, solidifying his status as a beloved artist. The group included talented West Coast musicians, providing a swinging backdrop that supported Armstrong's virtuosity during live shows at the club.
Though brief, this orchestra contributed to Armstrong's growing stardom, bridging his Hot Five and Hot Seven eras with broader commercial success. It ended as Armstrong pursued movies and further recordings, but its legacy endures through preserved 78 RPM tracks that exemplify early 1930s jazz innovation.
Fun Facts
- In 1930, Armstrong and drummer Vic Berton were arrested for smoking marijuana in the club's parking lot; Armstrong served nine days in jail for the misdemeanor.
- The orchestra featured a young Lionel Hampton, marking his introduction to major recording sessions alongside Armstrong.
- Recordings like 'If I Could Be With You' (August 19, 1930) are hailed as some of Armstrong's most touching vocal and trumpet performances.
- The band attracted Hollywood celebrities like Bing Crosby as regulars at the New Cotton Club.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Joe 'King' Oliver - Primary mentor who taught cornet playing and invited Armstrong to Chicago (Creole Jazz Band recordings (1923)) [1918-1922]
- Peter Davis - Music teacher at Colored Waif’s Home for Boys who taught proper cornet technique (Waif’s Home Brass Band) [1912-1914]
Key Collaborators
- Lionel Hampton - Young drummer and vibes player in the orchestra (Recordings like 'If I Could Be With You,' 'Body and Soul' (1930))
- Les Hite - Alto and baritone saxophonist; original orchestra leader whom Armstrong fronted (Sebastian New Cotton Club Orchestra sessions (1930))
- Lawrence Brown - Trombonist in the orchestra (Los Angeles recordings (1930-1931)) [1930-1931]
Artists Influenced
- Lionel Hampton - Introduced to vibes and gained early prominence playing with Armstrong (Sebastian New Cotton Club Orchestra tracks (1930)) [1930 onward]
Connection Network
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Louis Armstrong and His Sebastian New Cotton Club Orchestra has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.