If Louis Armstrong and his manager Joe Glaser had decided to put out a personal ad for a trombonist in 1952, it might have read something like this:
“Swing-based trombonist wanted to join the Louis Armstrong All-Stars. Must be a brilliant and flexible player, have experience working with strong leaders, and have a cheerful personality both on and offstage no matter what the circumstances. Familiarity with Louis Armstrong’s repertoire is a plus along with the ability to make every song and routine sound fresh and lively despite how many times they have previously been performed. Must enjoy traveling and be in excellent physical shape because there will be many lengthy tours. And most of all, the trombonist must love being in a supportive role because, although there will be individual features, the main purpose is to uplift the music of Louis Armstrong.”
Trummy Young had all of those qualities and is today best remembered for his 11 years as a member of the Louis Armstrong All-Stars where he was reliable, colorful, and always a major asset. He became so well known for that association that sometimes it is forgotten that he was an important trombonist in a variety of settings during the 20 years before he joined Armstrong.
James “Trummy” Young was born on Jan. 12, 1912 in Savannah, Georgia, growing up in Richmond, Virginia, and Washington D.C. (He started off as a child pla
