Discover the magic of jazz legend Louis Armstrong, one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, with the best vinyl records and albums that captivated the world. In this article, titled “Best Louis Armstrong Vinyl Records & Albums to Buy,” you’ll find a comprehensive list of unforgettable albums released on vinyl featuring the mesmerizing trumpet and vocal stylings of “Satchmo” himself, such as the iconic “What a Wonderful World.” We provide information on where to find and buy these precious gems as well as an extensive look into his full discography. Dive deep into the rich world of Armstrong and his incredible journey from a humble life in New Orleans to becoming an ambassador of Jazz around the globe, learning interesting facts like how Ornette Coleman regarded Armstrong as “the most important musician who ever lived.”
The Greatest Louis Armstrong Vinyl Records for Sale
Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five – Vinyl Record
Released in 1925
Released in 1925, this is the debut album of the renowned jazz musician Louis Armstrong. As part of his Hot Five group, Armstrong showcased his virtuosity in cornet playing and laid the foundation of jazz music with tracks such as “Heebie Jeebies,” “Cornet Chop Suey,” and “Struttin’ with Some Barbecue.” This historic album is a must-have for any serious jazz fan and collector.
Louis Armstrong and His Hot Seven – Vinyl Record
Released in 1927
“Louis Armstrong and His Hot Seven” is the 1927 follow-up album to Armstrong’s acclaimed “Hot Five” recordings. This album features Armstrong’s expanded band along with his outstanding trumpet playing and singing. Standout tracks include “S.O.L Blues,” “Willie the Weeper,” and “Potato Head Blues.” A fantastic addition to any vinyl collection, this album showcases Armstrong’s growth as an artist and his instrumental innovations.
Louis Armstrong and His Savoy Ballroom Five – Vinyl Record
Released in 1930
This album features Armstrong’s trumpet and vocals backed by his Savoy Ballroom Five, a group consisting of some of the finest musicians of the time. Recorded in 1930, the album includes notable tracks like “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” “Sweet Savannah Sue,” and “St. James Infirmary.” The “Savoy Ballroom Five” sessions are an essential part of the legendary musician’s discography and an excellent choice for any vintage vinyl enthusiast.
Louis Armstrong with the Mills Brothers – Pennies from Heaven / Carry Me Back to Old Virginny – Vinyl Record
Released in 1931
A collaboration between Louis Armstrong and the popular vocal group The Mills Brothers, this single vinyl record features two songs, “Pennies from Heaven” and “Carry Me Back to Old Virginny.” Combining Armstrong’s unique trumpet playing and singing with the harmony and scat-singing of the Mills Brothers, this record captures a special moment in jazz history.
Louis Armstrong Plays Fats Waller – Vinyl Record
Released in 1938
In 1938, Louis Armstrong paid tribute to the legendary jazz pianist and composer Fats Waller with this album. The record features Armstrong’s renditions of Waller’s compositions, such as “Squeeze Me,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” and “Blue Turning Grey Over You.” “Louis Armstrong Plays Fats Waller” is a fantastic way to experience Armstrong’s interpretations of another jazz great’s works.
Louis Armstrong with the Golden Gate Quartet – Vinyl Record
Released in 1940
This rare collaboration between Louis Armstrong and the Golden Gate Quartet combines the jazz trumpeter’s unique sound with the gospel harmonies of the quartet. This album showcases Armstrong’s versatility and ability to blend genres seamlessly, creating a delightful listening experience.
Louis Armstrong and His All Stars: The Town Hall Concert – Vinyl Record
Released in 1946
Recorded live at New York City’s Town Hall in 1946, this album captures one of Louis Armstrong’s most iconic performances with his All Stars band. The concert includes classic numbers like “Muskrat Ramble,” “Save It, Pretty Mama,” and “St. Louis Blues,” showcasing Armstrong’s groundbreaking jazz trumpeting and unforgettable vocals.
Satch Plays Fats: The Music of Fats Waller – Vinyl Record
Released in 1947
This 1947 album has Louis Armstrong revisiting the music of Fats Waller in a full-length format. A joyful and exuberant record, “Satch Plays Fats” is a beautiful tribute to Waller’s enduring jazz compositions and a testament to Armstrong’s deep respect and admiration for his fellow musician. Tracks like “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “The Joint is Jumpin’,” and “Honeysuckle Rose” make this a treasured addition to any vinyl collection.
Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington: The Duke meets the Trumpet King – Vinyl Record
Released in 1951
In 1951, two legends of jazz came together to create this magnificent album. Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington collaborated on a collection of their favorite compositions, resulting in a remarkable fusion of their distinctive musical styles. With tracks like “I’m Just a Lucky So and So,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” and “Mood Indigo,” this iconic album is a must-own for any jazz enthusiast.
Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy – Vinyl Record
Released in 1954
In this 1954 album, Louis Armstrong pays homage to blues composer W.C. Handy, exploring the roots of jazz and blues music. The album features a collection of Handy’s best compositions, with Armstrong’s unique trumpet playing and vocal style breathing new life into tracks like “St. Louis Blues,” “Yellow Dog Blues,” and “Beale Street Blues.” “Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy” is an essential addition to any vinyl lover’s collection.
Ambassador Satch – Vinyl Record
Released in 1956
This album, released in 1956, celebrates Louis Armstrong’s role as a goodwill ambassador for the US State Department in the 1950s. Featuring lively performances of classics like “Muskrat Ramble,” “Tiger Rag,” and “West End Blues,” “Ambassador Satch” beautifully showcases Armstrong’s talent as a global jazz icon.
Ella and Louis – Vinyl Record
Released in 1957
“Ella and Louis” is a duet album, released in 1957, that features the incredible vocal talents of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. The pair’s captivating renditions of classic songs like “Can’t We Be Friends,” “Moonlight in Vermont,” and “Cheek to Cheek” make this album a vital piece for any jazz vinyl collector.
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Satchmo: A Musical Autobiography of Louis Armstrong – Vinyl Record
Released in 1958
“Satchmo: A Musical Autobiography of Louis Armstrong” is a comprehensive collection of Armstrong’s greatest hits and personal favorites. Released in 1958, this vinyl record set spans the impressive career of the jazz icon, featuring some of his most memorable and beloved songs. A must-have for all collectors, this album offers an insight into Armstrong’s musical journey, from his early days in New Orleans to his worldwide fame.
The Five Pennies – Louis Armstrong Soundtrack Album – Vinyl Record
Released in 1960
This soundtrack album from the 1960 movie “The Five Pennies,” starring Danny Kaye and Louis Armstrong, features original songs and performances from the film. With tracks like “After You’ve Gone,” “Beale Street Blues,” and the title song “Five Pennies,” this vinyl record is a great addition to any Armstrong collection and a nostalgic piece of Hollywood memorabilia.
The Genius of Louis Armstrong: Volume I, 1923-1937 – Vinyl Record
Released in 1961
This compilation album highlights the best of Louis Armstrong’s work from 1923 to 1937, showcasing his incredible talent and contribution to the jazz genre. From his early Hot Five and Hot Seven recordings to his later work with various orchestras, “The Genius of Louis Armstrong” offers a comprehensive overview of Armstrong’s incredible career during these years. A must-have for any collector, this vinyl record is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the greatest musicians of all time.
Louis Armstrong Plays in Europe – Vinyl Record
Released in 1963
Recorded during his European tour in the 1950s, “Louis Armstrong Plays in Europe” captures the energetic performances that made him a global icon. This album features live recordings of Armstrong’s most famous songs, including “When It’s Sleepy Time Down South,” “Indiana,” and “When the Saints Go Marching In.” The record is a wonderful addition to any vinyl collection and a reminder of the joy and brilliance of live jazz.
Louis Armstrong and His Friends – Vinyl Record
Released in 1964
In this 1964 album, Louis Armstrong is joined by a variety of fellow musicians and friends for a diverse and enjoyable listening experience. With tracks like “Hello, Dolly!,” “Can’t We Be Friends,” and “Moon River,” “Louis Armstrong and His Friends” showcases the musician’s ability to work with a variety of artists and styles, making it a unique addition to any collection.
What a Wonderful World – Vinyl Record
Released in 1967
Louis Armstrong’s 1967 album “What a Wonderful World” features one of his most famous and cherished recordings of the same title. The album also includes other memorable tracks, such as “Cabaret” and “The Home Fire.” A timeless classic, “What a Wonderful World” is an essential purchase for any vinyl collector and a perfect showcase of Armstrong’s incredible musical talent.
Disney Songs the Satchmo Way – Vinyl Record
Released in 1968
In this delightful album, jazz icon Louis Armstrong puts his unique spin on classic Disney songs. With his signature trumpet playing and vocals, Armstrong masterfully reinterprets tracks like “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah,” “Heigh-Ho,” and “When You Wish Upon a Star.” “Disney Songs the Satchmo Way” is a beautiful blending of Armstrong’s jazzy style with the whimsical world of Disney, making it a lovely addition to any vinyl collection.
Louis Armstrong and His Friends, Volume 2 – Vinyl Record
Released in 1970
This second volume of “Louis Armstrong and His Friends” continues the collaboration between Armstrong and various guest artists, creating an album full of wonderful performances and memorable tracks. Highlights include “We Have All the Time in the World,” “Everybody’s Talkin’,” and “Give Peace a Chance.” A great addition for any fan of Armstrong, this record neatly showcases his ability to collaborate with and elevate other musicians.
Louis Armstrong: The Best of the Decca Years – Vinyl Record
Released in 1971
This compilation of Louis Armstrong’s work during his time at Decca Records features some of his most iconic performances and recordings. With tracks like “A Kiss to Build a Dream On,” “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” and “Blueberry Hill,” “The Best of the Decca Years” is a fantastic overview of Armstrong’s influential and enduring musical legacy.
Jazz at the Cortt – Louis Armstrong & His All Stars – Vinyl Record
Released in 1976
One of the last recordings featuring Louis Armstrong, “Jazz at the Cortt” captures the legendary musician and his All Stars band in a thrilling live performance. With exhilarating renditions of jazz standards like “Basin Street Blues,” “Mack the Knife,” and “Hello, Dolly!,” this record is a fitting tribute to the incredible talent and enduring legacy of one of the greatest musicians of all time.
Full Louis Armstrong Discography
- 1925 – Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five
- 1927 – Louis Armstrong and His Hot Seven
- 1930 – Louis Armstrong and His Savoy Ballroom Five
- 1931 – Louis Armstrong with the Mills Brothers – Pennies from Heaven / Carry Me Back to Old Virginny
- 1938 – Louis Armstrong Plays Fats Waller
- 1940 – Louis Armstrong with the Golden Gate Quartet
- 1946 – Louis Armstrong and His All Stars: The Town Hall Concert
- 1947 – Satch Plays Fats: The Music of Fats Waller
- 1951 – Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington: The Duke meets the Trumpet King
- 1954 – Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy
- 1956 – Ambassador Satch
- 1957 – Ella and Louis
- 1958 – Satchmo: A Musical Autobiography of Louis Armstrong
- 1960 – The Five Pennies – Louis Armstrong Soundtrack Album
- 1961 – The Genius of Louis Armstrong: Volume I, 1923-1937
- 1963 – Louis Armstrong Plays in Europe
- 1964 – Louis Armstrong and His Friends
- 1967 – What a Wonderful World
- 1968 – Disney Songs the Satchmo Way
- 1970 – Louis Armstrong and His Friends, Volume 2
- 1971 – Louis Armstrong: The Best of the Decca Years
- 1976 – Jazz at the Cortt – Louis Armstrong & His All Stars
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