Louis Armstrong

Lyrics

[Instrumental]

[Verse 1]
Yes, I ain't got nobody, baby
And there's nobody cares for me
Mm, I'm so sad and lonely, baby, yeah
Won't someone take a chance with me?
[Scat]

[Verse 2]
I'll sing my love song, I sing it all the time
Won't some of you hot mama's run here and sorta just be mine?
Yes I, I ain't got nobody, baby, yes
Baby, nobody, nobody cares for me

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Are you ready to listen to one of the most influential and timeless songs in jazz? "I Ain't Got Nobody" by Louis Armstrong is a true classic from the early twentieth century that still resonates with audiences today. Let's dive into the history and musicality of this unforgettable tune.

About I Ain’t Got Nobody

"I Ain't Got Nobody" was composed in 1915, with music by Spencer Williams and lyrics by Roger Graham. The song tells the story of a person who feels completely alone in the world, with no one to turn to or confide in. Despite the sad lyrics, the song has a catchy melody that has made it a popular choice for jazz musicians over the years.

The song has been covered by numerous artists since its debut, including Fats Waller, Cab Calloway, and Nina Simone. But it was Louis Armstrong's rendition that truly immortalized the song. Armstrong's version was recorded in 1956, over forty years after the song's initial release, but it remains the most well-known and beloved version of "I Ain't Got Nobody."

One of the unique aspects of Armstrong's version of the song is his use of scat singing. Scat singing involves using improvised vocalizations instead of actual words. Armstrong was one of the pioneers of this technique, and "I Ain't Got Nobody" showcases his incredible skills as a scat singer.

Another standout aspect of Armstrong's version of the song is his use of call-and-response. Call-and-response is a musical technique where one person or group sings a phrase, and another person or group responds with a different phrase. In Armstrong's version of "I Ain't Got Nobody," he alternates between singing and scatting, while his backing vocalists respond to his calls.

"I Ain't Got Nobody" is also notable for its use of instrumentation. Armstrong's band, the All Stars, provides excellent accompaniment throughout the song, with notable contributions from Trummy Young on trombone and Billy Kyle on piano. The song begins with a memorable trumpet solo from Armstrong, setting the stage for the rest of the band to follow.

The song's enduring popularity can also be attributed to its use in pop culture over the years. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in the collective consciousness. Its timeless lyrics and catchy melody continue to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

In all, "I Ain't Got Nobody" is a masterpiece of jazz music that showcases Louis Armstrong's incredible talent as both a singer and a musician. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting impact on the world of music.

So, if you're in the mood for some classic jazz, give "I Ain't Got Nobody" by Louis Armstrong a listen. You won't be disappointed!

• Release Date: 1960
• Artist: Louis Armstrong