Jelly Roll Morton

Dive into the vibrant world of Jelly Roll Morton, a pioneering figure in the realms of ragtime, jazz, and swing. Born Ferdinand Joseph LaMothe, this Louisiana Creole pianist, bandleader, and composer was a true innovator, often credited as jazz's first great composer and arranger. Morton's groundbreaking approach to jazz involved meticulously writing down his arrangements, proving that this improvisational genre could be structured and orchestrated. His compositions, such as "Jelly Roll Blues," "King Porter Stomp," and "Wolverine Blues," are timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on the music world. Morton's legacy is one of blending genres and pushing boundaries, making him an essential figure in the evolution of American music.