These recordings, which were made between 1925 and 1928, show Louis Armstrong at a turning point in both his career and the development of jazz. Armstrong became the first real virtuoso of jazz and redefined what was possible in the genre with these records, which moved the emphasis from group improvisation to the strength of the soloist.

Jazz was mostly an ensemble-driven genre before Armstrong's Hot Five and Hot Seven albums, with players fusing group improvisations. However, by placing the soloist at the centre of the song, Armstrong altered the rules. Each single became a masterwork of musical narrative because of his brilliant trumpet runs, seamless grasp of phrasing, and expressive sense of swing.

He was unmatched in his ability to mould a melody by bending and stretching notes to produce something completely different. These records demonstrated a degree of technical mastery and emotional depth never before heard in jazz, making them more than just performances.

There are many revolutionary moments in this compilation. Songs such as "West End Blues" are among the most recognisable jazz recordings ever made. Armstrong's magnificent, unaccompanied trumpet cadenza, an incredible demonstration of virtuosity and control, introduces the song. It was a turning point that reshaped jazz improvisation and established the benchmark for succeeding musical generations.

Another notable song is "Potato Head Blues," which showcases Armstrong's ground-breaking usage of stop-time soloing, in which the band pauses to give Armstrong's trumpet complete attention. Numerous jazz and rock performers would later be influenced by this style.

His band's contagious enthusiasm is demonstrated on songs like "Struttin' with Some Barbecue" and "Hotter Than That," where Armstrong's distinctive trumpet soars above the rhythm section. While Armstrong's improvised vocal break exposed the world to his fun, rhythmic approach to wordless vocals, "Heebie Jeebies" is frequently credited with popularising scat singing.

Although Armstrong is unquestionably the headliner, these records were greatly influenced by his supporting ensemble. While clarinettist Johnny Dodds and trombonist Kid Ory contributed rich textures to the arrangements, pianist Earl Hines' flowing, lyrical style of playing complemented Armstrong's innovations.

Together, they produced a sound that paved the way for jazz's future and hinted at the swing era. Later, jazz greats like Duke Ellington and Charlie Parker, and even contemporary musicians outside of jazz, would be influenced by Armstrong's phrasing and sense of rhythm.

It is impossible to overestimate the influence of The Complete Hot Five and Hot Seven Recordings. The turning point from jazz as a collective folk music to an art form focused on personal expression is marked by this compilation. Armstrong's emotional depth, tone, and phrasing served as a model for almost all jazz musicians that came after him.

Armstrong's influence was not limited to jazz; it also permeated pop and rock. Miles Davis, The Beatles, and even hip-hop artists have used his free-flowing sense of rhythm and improvisation in their songs, showcasing his swing and melodic phrasing.

Anyone who wishes to comprehend the origins of contemporary music, not only jazz fans, should listen to The Complete Hot Five and Hot Seven Recordings. By reinventing what it meant to be a musician and laying the groundwork for jazz's future, these recordings show an artist at the height of his creative potential. This collection is among the most significant musical records of the 20th century, and Louis Armstrong did more than just perform jazz; he revolutionised it.

This is the starting point for everyone who wants to experience jazz in its purest form.