The great Louis Daniel Armstrong (August 4, 1901 – July 6, 1971), Louis was born and raised in New Orleans and nicknamed "Satchmo", "Satch", and "Pops" He was a trumpeter, composer, vocalist, and actor, and was one of the most influential figures in jazz.
With his instantly recognizable rich, gravelly voice, he was renowned for his charismatic stage presence and his skillful improvisation. Louis was one of the first popular African-American entertainers to "cross over" to wide popularity with white (and international) audiences.
In March 1971 he was hospitalized for a heart attack and he was released from the hospital in May. He quickly resumed practicing his trumpet playing, still hoping to get back on the road. Regrettably, Louis died of a heart attack in his sleep on July 6, 1971, a month before his 70th birthday.