Probably the most famous jazz musician of the 20th century, Armstrong was a charismatic, innovative performer whose musical skills and bright personality transformed jazz from a rough regional dance music into a popular art form. ALS signed “Satchmo, Louis Armstrong,” three pages both sides, 7.25 x 10.5, Satchmo letterhead, April 17, 1965. Armstrong writes as he recuperates from an Eastern European tour. In part, “Here I am sitting in my home in Corona on Easter Sunday night all by myself writing this letter to you while my wife Lucille has a good sleep…The reason we are so tired is because we have just returned from our tour behind the Iron Curtain, which we both enjoyed very, very much…We did a broadcast in Frankfort [sic], Germany not long ago.” He goes on to offer emotional support to his recently widowed friend. “I always feel very sad when you mention your dear wife…The way you feel about Hilde – she felt the same way about you. True love. So as I’ve always said, when two people love each other like you & Hilde did you must feel contented. Never worry – never grieve! even if you should marry again. Stay happy. I preach those same words to Lucille lots of times during our life together. I have so much from the life she & I have already live [sic] together until I don’t want no misery from [for] which ever one of us should leave this earth last.” In fine condition, with several mailing folds, some scattered light wrinkling and an almost 6” long signature. R&R COA.
