Louis Prima

Bio

Louis Prima (1910–1978) was an American trumpeter, singer, and bandleader whose exuberant style helped shape the swing era. Born in New Orleans, he led a series of big bands that fused Dixieland jazz with upbeat showmanship, scoring hits such as “Sing, Sing, Sing” and “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail.” In the 1950s Prima teamed with vocalist Keely Smith and saxophonist Sam Butera, creating a high-energy Las Vegas revue that bridged jazz, pop, and early rock-and-roll. His recordings for Capitol and Dot remain staples of the swing-revival repertoire.