The music of the 1920's was alive with innovation, risk taking, and sensational sounds. In other words, this was the age of jazz in the United States. Like any other musical era, there are a number of legends that will always be associated with 1920s jazz music.
Filled with great sounds and music that defined an era, 1920s jazz music is known for its variety, sense of style, and its timeless sophistication. It was an era of flappers, dancing, free style jazz and wonderful innovation not seen anywhere else on the jazz scene.
Legendary Trumpet Players
One of the most noteworthy legends of the early 1920s was the trumpet player known as King Oliver. Strongly influenced by Buddy Bolden, he became a trumpet stylist in his own right, and became the influence for many of the greats of the time. In fact, one of the most famous jazz musicians, Louis Armstrong, joined King Oliver in the Roseland Ballroom in New York and made history with the Hot Five.
Country Blues
Another great sub genre that existed during the era of 1920's jazz music was that of the country blues. Known for their risqu lyrics, and rough cut rural vocal phrasings, musicians such as Sippie Wallace, and Blind Lemon Jefferson had a musical style that was a world away from the normal cosmopolitan 1920s jazz music.
In fact, Blind Lemon Jefferson sold nearly eighty blues tunes between 1925 and 1929, making him one of the most prolific musicians of 1920s jazz music. He also influenced some of the greatest legends of the next decades including Johnny Dodds, Blind Blake, and yes, even Louis Armstrong.
One of the best loved singers of 1920s jazz music was Sippie Wallace. Born in Texas, this singing powerhouse brought the raw Texas styled blues to the forefront of the music scene. Her musical records stretched throughout the 1920s, but her most influential work was done from 1923 until 1927 with such noteworthy names as Sidney Bechet and Clarence Williams helping out.
Another great legend of 1920s jazz music was Blind Willie McTell. Known for the ability to change his persona with the audience, and some spectacular guitar work, this wonderful musician quickly became known in the music industry as one to watch. In fact, a lot of the jazz guitarists that are famous today can trace their styling back to this legend of 1920s jazz music.
1920s jazz music will always be known for the contributions of its legends to the era and it is this popular music of the 1920s that became the building block for many of the music styles today.
