Born:
Sept. 6, 1877, his parents were Alice and Westmore
Birthplace:
New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A.
Died:
Nov. 4, 1931, Jackson, Louisiana
Also Known As:
His full name was Charles Joseph Bolden, nicknamed as "King". He was a cornetist, bandleader, known as the first legendary jazz performer who influenced many jazz musicians including
Louis Armstrong.
Type of Music:
Blues, waltzes and
ragtime. He was known for his powerful playing.
Interesting Facts:
Bolden is said to have picked up the
cornet in 1894 after finishing his studies. That will make him 17 years old, considered late in terms of studying music but this certainly did not hinder Bolden. By 1895 he was already leading his own band but it was in 1901 when he became known as a professional musician. He played in the famed Storyville district of New Orleans. Bolden's fame reached its peak in 1905 as his band performed in various venues.
More Bolden Facts:
In 1906, Bolden began exhibiting signs of mental problems which greatly affected his band. Eventually the band was led by trombonist Frank Dusen and Bolden was admitted to a mental institution in 1907 where he spent the rest of his life. He left no known recordings but his influence on fellow cornetists and jazz musicians are evident.
