And All That Jazz…

These photos were taken at the home of the iconic Louis Armstrong and his wife Lucille Armstrong, and I’m so happy that I was able to stand and pose right in history. One of the things that I enjoy about social media, is the information of new experiences, restaurants, events, and shows that can be held right in your neighborhood. Prior to catching a video on TikTok, I was unaware that the Louis Armstrong museum even existed. There is a phenomenal jazz musician by the name of Kevin Oliver Jr., who plays the saxophone, that posted about a free jazz show being held at the museum on Juneteenth weekend. It just so happened that I was available! I asked my sister if she wanted to join, she said yes, and from there we were on our way.

The concert featured amazing musicians that played the bass, piano, trumpet, drums and a beautiful jazz singer. I sat there in awe because I was thinking about the joy Louis would feel today, to know that we are still celebrating the beauty of jazz due to his legacy. It made me think about the legacy I would be leaving, and more so the impact that one person can make by simply living in their purpose, not giving up, and sharing that gift with the world. I realized that no one really thinks about the importance of their decisions, and how that can shape the future for not only your family but many people around you, including strangers.

This experience and inspiration for the new generation of musicians would not exist if it wasn’t for the greats like Louis. I was also intrigued by his wife Lucille, who secretly purchased the home behind his back, due to being tired of bouncing from hotel to hotel. She purchased the home with her own money, furnished the home, and lived there for 8 months prior to informing him. He was elated and grew to love the home just as much as she did. After her passing, she donated the home to New York, where they kept it with its original decor and furniture. They then turned their home into a museum that you can visit today, located in Queens.

While at the concert I felt a strong sense of freedom, pride, joy and peace because it reminded me to always take the opportunity to explore the world, but also locally as well. I have been living in Queens since I was two, and was surprised to know that this museum existed. The more I’m introduced to a new experience, the more I want to not only explore further but to share with others. At a time where there is uncertainty, confusion, doubt, and personal concerns, its beautiful when you find an escape that’s healthy and feeds joy. I hope this blogpost encourages you to explore what is within your area, you may be surprised of the rich history, meet new people, or learn about a new subject or skill that you surprisingly enjoy. Life definitely has highs and lows, but when we have a choice to have a great day, you need to grab that and bask in it. I can confidently say that this day was beautiful, and I just want to spend the rest of my days adding more experiences to my life bank and I want you to do the same.

I know we hear music, but I want you to feel it too.

Museum: Louis Armstrong Museum

Bag: TJ Max

Hat: Alien NYC