Louis Armstrong’s Rendition of ‘What A Marvelous World’ in 1967 Continues to Send Shivers Down Our Spines
Louis Armstrong possesses the art of instilling in us an appreciation for life and our surroundings. His melodies not only entertain but also carry profound messages, allowing them to deeply touch our hearts. Armstrong’s compositions serve as a source of inspiration, offering a broader message to the world.
Renowned as one of the greatest musicians in history, Louis Armstrong’s 1967 performance stands as one of the finest. With his mesmerizing voice and captivating blue jacket, he serenaded the world in a truly unforgettable manner.
Watching this legendary jazz musician, one cannot help but see the world as a magnificent place. His performance remains unparalleled, especially with his rendition of the song “What A Wonderful World,” which has resonated worldwide, even among younger audiences.
Surprisingly, the song was initially offered to Tony Bennett, a well-known American singer famous for “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” However, Bennett declined the offer, and thankfully, Armstrong accepted the opportunity.
Armstrong’s unique raspy voice brought distinctiveness to the song, making his version incomparable. Despite the lack of substantial marketing, the song became a massive success in Great Britain, reigning at the top of the charts for nearly a month. Its popularity soon spread across the globe, touching the hearts of millions.
Presently, “What A Wonderful World” can be heard in various films and television programs, and numerous artists have covered it throughout the ages. However, nothing quite compares to the original rendition.
That is why the vintage 1967 performance video on YouTube has resurfaced as a viral sensation. Uploaded again in 2016, it has garnered over 36 million views and nearly 500,000 likes!
In the video, Armstrong exudes joy in his elements. Though it is a brief 2-minute clip, his happiness is evident. He sings while smiling, accompanied by the music from the band behind him, projecting immense satisfaction.
Even viewers of the video concur with the sentiment. One user shared, “With all that is happening in this world, hatred, racism, the killing of the innocent, I just had to come here to listen to this. Praying for a wonderful world !!!” Another remarked, “There’s something about him… Like how he looks so happy singing this song… Like he really means every word….”
Louis Armstrong’s upbringing was fraught with challenges. He grew up in “The Battlefield,” a poverty-stricken neighborhood. Facing the absence of the complete family he desired, as his father abandoned him at birth, Armstrong’s life was indeed tough. Yet, through this song, he teaches us that life can still be fantastic, even in the absence of everything we desire.