Anywhere in the world today you will find
the distinctive face and hear the unmistakable voice and trumpet of Louis
Armstrong. Even three decades after his death ‘Satchmo’ still tops the pop
charts. He single handedly laid the foundation for soloing on any instrument,
pioneered the art of singing and invented the scatting phenomenon. Ambassador
Satch was the first to travel the world sharing the joy of jazz, America’s
greatest gift to the world. Transcending all barriers of age, creed and colour,
there is no greater jazz personality than Satchmo.
Mimicry is an art form mastered by many but what Gwyn Jay Allen does in his personification of Louis Armstrong, arguably the greatest Jazz figure of all times, exceeds any definition of this art form. Not only is his unique tribute album “I Love Louis” dedicated to the late Louis, but as many people have described it, he is Louis Armstrong reborn. Gwyn personifies both the jester and the genius of Satchmo. You can’t help but marvel at the likeness in both his voice and character.
Sharing the same Creole origin of the Diaspora, you come to realize that there is a far deeper historical and spiritual connection, which explains Gwyn’s special affinity to Louis. The New Orleans Creole experience of old blending with Gwyn’s West African Krio experience from his hometown Freetown in Sierra Leone, is quite unique and becomes evident in his performances. His tribute shows cover a good taste of Armstrong favourites, rear hits and some of Gwyn’s own songs written about Louis done in that authentic New Orleans style. They are also gems in their own right. Showing off his diversity both vocally and instrumentally, he brings out his true African heritage in a rich flavour of African drum rhythms over jazz standards.
Mimicry is an art form mastered by many but what Gwyn Jay Allen does in his personification of Louis Armstrong, arguably the greatest Jazz figure of all times, exceeds any definition of this art form. Not only is his unique tribute album “I Love Louis” dedicated to the late Louis, but as many people have described it, he is Louis Armstrong reborn. Gwyn personifies both the jester and the genius of Satchmo. You can’t help but marvel at the likeness in both his voice and character.
Sharing the same Creole origin of the Diaspora, you come to realize that there is a far deeper historical and spiritual connection, which explains Gwyn’s special affinity to Louis. The New Orleans Creole experience of old blending with Gwyn’s West African Krio experience from his hometown Freetown in Sierra Leone, is quite unique and becomes evident in his performances. His tribute shows cover a good taste of Armstrong favourites, rear hits and some of Gwyn’s own songs written about Louis done in that authentic New Orleans style. They are also gems in their own right. Showing off his diversity both vocally and instrumentally, he brings out his true African heritage in a rich flavour of African drum rhythms over jazz standards.