Louis Armstrong's early life was marked by poverty, growing up in a single-parent household. The 13-year-old's New Year's celebration turned into a memorable event when he ran out onto the street and fired a pistol that belonged to his mother's current partner. This incident led to his placement at the Colored Waifs Home for Boys, where he discovered his passion for music. At the home, he learned to play the bugle and clarinet, and even joined the brass band, performing at social gatherings, picnics, and funerals for a small fee.
As he grew older, Armstrong's talent and dedication earned him a spot in the Kid Ory Band in New Orleans, where he worked at the age of 18. Four years later, in 1922, he made the move to Chicago, joining the Creole Jazz Band as their second coronet player. This marked the beginning of his recording career, with his first recordings made with the band in 1923.
Armstrong's breakthrough on Broadway came in 1929 with the musical "Hot Chocolates," where he introduced Fats Waller's hit song "Ain't Misbehavin'." This popular song cemented his status as a rising star. In 1932, he embarked on a tour of Europe, where he performed for King George V in a command performance. However, in a moment of forgetfulness, Armstrong addressed the king by name, announcing "This one's for you, Rex" just before playing a particularly hot number on his trumpet.
