Biography
Trumpet Black, born Travis Hill in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a rising star in the jazz and funk scenes, known for his dynamic trumpet playing and charismatic stage presence. Growing up in the Tremé neighborhood, he was immersed in the city’s rich musical culture from an early age, coming from a family deeply rooted in New Orleans brass band traditions. As a teenager, he began performing with local brass bands, quickly earning a reputation for his soulful tone and energetic improvisation.
Trumpet Black’s career developed rapidly as he became a fixture in New Orleans’ vibrant live music circuit, performing with groups such as the New Birth Brass Band and leading his own ensemble, Trumpet Black & The Heart Attacks. His musical style blended traditional New Orleans jazz with elements of funk, R&B, and hip-hop, reflecting both his heritage and contemporary influences. Despite his young age, he was celebrated for his ability to bridge generations of New Orleans musicians, collaborating with both established artists and up-and-coming talent.
Tragically, Trumpet Black’s promising career was cut short when he died suddenly in 2015 at the age of 28 while on tour in Japan. His legacy endures through his recordings and the impact he had on the New Orleans music community, inspiring a new generation of brass musicians to innovate while honoring tradition.
Fun Facts
- Trumpet Black was the nephew of New Orleans trumpeter James Andrews and a cousin to Troy 'Trombone Shorty' Andrews, making him part of a legendary musical family.
- He began playing trumpet at age 7, following in the footsteps of his family members.
- Trumpet Black was known for his flamboyant performance style, often incorporating dance and audience interaction into his shows.
- He died tragically young from a dental infection while on tour in Japan, highlighting the importance of health care access for musicians.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- James Andrews - Trumpet Black’s uncle and a prominent New Orleans trumpeter who guided his early musical development. (Live performances, family collaborations) [1990s–2015]
Key Collaborators
- New Birth Brass Band - Performed and recorded as a member, contributing to the group’s signature sound. (Live shows, local recordings) [2000s–2015]
- The Heart Attacks - Led his own band, blending jazz, funk, and R&B. (Trumpet Black & The Heart Attacks (self-titled album), various singles) [2010s]
Artists Influenced
- Members of the New Orleans brass band scene - Inspired younger musicians with his energetic style and fusion of genres. (Live performances, mentorship) [2010s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The New Beginning | 2025-05-08 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Feel It (The New Beginning)
- 6th Ward (The New Beginning)
- Got Soul (The New Beginning)
- St. James Infirmary (The New Beginning)
- Street Parade (The New Beginning)
- Trumpets Not Guns (The New Beginning)
- Good Life (The New Beginning)
External Links
Heard on WWOZ
TRUMPET BLACK has been played 7 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 21, 2025 | 13:56 | Trumpet Not Gunsfrom The New Beginning | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Oct 21, 2025 | 13:17 | Street Paradefrom The New Beginning | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Oct 14, 2025 | 13:56 | Trumpet Not Gunsfrom The New Beginning | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Oct 14, 2025 | 13:31 | Good life | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Oct 7, 2025 | 13:56 | Trumpet Not Gunsfrom The New Beginning | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Sep 30, 2025 | 13:56 | Trumpet Not Gunsfrom The New Beginning | New Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams | |
| Sep 20, 2025 | 16:39 | TRUMPETS NOT GUNS | World Journeyw/ Logan |