The best Louis Armstrong albums

20 records, ordered by how much they reward a first listen — not by chart position.

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Hello, Dolly!

  1. 1
    Satchmo at Pasadena

    Satchmo at Pasadena

    1951

    A vibrant showcase of jazz standards, blending Armstrong's signature trumpet with warm, inviting vocals and an enthusiastic rhythm section.

  2. 2
    Satchmo In Style

    Satchmo In Style

    1959

    A warm blend of traditional jazz and pop standards, showcasing Armstrong's rich trumpet tones and distinctive vocal style.

  3. 3
    Disney Songs the Satchmo Way

    Disney Songs the Satchmo Way

    1968

    A playful blend of jazz and whimsy transforms beloved Disney classics into a vibrant celebration of Louis Armstrong's distinct vocal charm.

  4. 4
    Ella and Louis

    Ella and Louis

    1956

    A captivating blend of jazz and vocal harmony that feels both intimate and expansive, showcasing timeless melodies and heartfelt improvisation.

  5. 5
    Ella and Louis Again

    Ella and Louis Again

    1957

    A lush blend of jazz standards featuring playful exchanges between Armstrong's trumpet and Fitzgerald's luminous vocals.

  6. 6
    Bing & Satchmo

    Bing & Satchmo

    1960

    A lively blend of jazz and playful camaraderie, showcasing two icons through energetic performances and cherished standards.

  7. 7
    Louis 'Country & Western' Armstrong

    Louis 'Country & Western' Armstrong

    A fusion of jazz virtuosity and country storytelling, blending heartfelt melodies with Armstrong’s unmistakable charm.

  8. 8
    Louis and the Angels

    Louis and the Angels

    1957

    A lush orchestral backdrop intertwines with Armstrong's warm, gravelly vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere of romance and nostalgia.

  9. 9
    Porgy and Bess

    Porgy and Bess

    1958

    A vibrant fusion of jazz and opera, imbued with emotional depth and soulful performances that breathe new life into classic melodies.

  10. 10
    Louis Armstrong and His Friends

    Louis Armstrong and His Friends

    A lush blend of jazz, soul, and pop, showcasing Armstrong's warm vocals against rich instrumental backdrops.

  11. 11
    Louis and the Good Book

    Louis and the Good Book

    1958

    A soulful blend of traditional spirituals infused with Armstrong's quintessential jazz improvisation and heartfelt vocal delivery.

  12. 12
    Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy

    Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy

    1954

    A vibrant homage to the blues, blending Armstrong's signature trumpet with rich, soulful vocals and authentic rhythms.

  13. 13
    Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson

    Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson

    1957

    A smooth blend of jazz piano and Armstrong's iconic trumpet creates a timeless dialogue of warmth and sophistication.

  14. 14
    Louis Under the Stars

    Louis Under the Stars

    1958

    A lush orchestral backdrop frames Armstrong's warm, expressive trumpet and vocal delivery in this intimate jazz album.

  15. 15
    I've Got the World on a String

    I've Got the World on a String

    1960

    A sophisticated blend of heartfelt ballads and swinging jazz that showcases Armstrong's rich, raspy voice and masterful trumpet playing.

  16. 16
    Hello, Dolly!

    Hello, Dolly!

    1964

    A jubilant blend of traditional jazz and show tunes, showcasing Armstrong's warm voice and charismatic trumpet playing.

  17. 17
    What a Wonderful World

    What a Wonderful World

    1968

  18. 18
    Satchmo Serenades

    Satchmo Serenades

  19. 19
    Louis Armstrong Hot Five and Hot Seven Sessions

    Louis Armstrong Hot Five and Hot Seven Sessions

  20. 20
    Louis Armstrong at the Crescendo, Vol. 1

    Louis Armstrong at the Crescendo, Vol. 1