WKCR is delighted to announce a 24-hour birthday broadcast celebrating the (alleged) birthday of the legendary trumpeter Louis Armstrong. This special broadcast will run on FM and HD radio and online from midnight to midnight on July 4th, preempting all regularly scheduled Saturday programming.

Born in New Orleans on August 4th, 1901, Armstrong's mother celebrated his birthday on Independence Day, which Armstrong himself believed most of his life. In 1922, Armstrong joined King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band and became a featured soloist, during which his approach to rhythm and phrasing became the quintessential sound of the era. In 1924, he moved to New York City to join Fletcher Henderson's Orchestra, but returned to Chicago by 1925, where he led his infamous Hot Fives and Hot Sevens recordings until 1928. While his sounds on the cornet and trumpet are distinctive and infamous, both technically skillful and emotionally laden, his raspy yet melodic vocals were even more legendary. He brought a unique energy and charisma to every performance and, by the 1950's, had become a household name and the face of jazz, known overseas as "Ambassador Satch". Throughout his career, Armstrong collaborated with numerous jazz legends, including Ella Fitzgerald, Dave Brubeck, and Duke Ellington. Although Armstrong did not compose original pieces, his performances redefined what jazz could be and influenced generations to come.

At WKCR, we celebrate Armstrong twice -- once on his alleged birthday in July, and once a month later on August 4th. Tune in to WKCR during this Fourth of July to honor and enjoy the music of the late, great icon, Louis Armstrong. Follow WKCR on Instagram (@wkcr) and Twitter (@WKCRFM) for further updates. Online listening is available 24/7 at wkcr.org via our web stream.