With a fascinating career bridging performing, education and history, Regina Bain is currently the executive director of the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens, New York. A Yale School of Drama alumni, Regina shares insights on Satchmo’s legacy as America’s first Black music icon, his innovative use of recording technology, and the unique aspects of the museum, including the soundproof performance center and vibrant garden concerts. Pops also had a passion for archiving, and the museum continues to inspire new audiences through its digital collection and engaging programs, oh, yeah!

You’ll get the “Heebie Jeebies” when you listen to this insightful conversation that not only honors the legacy of Louis Armstrong but also highlights the ongoing work to preserve and celebrate his contributions to music and culture. 

Red beans and ricely yours,

Ian & Regina 🙂

Links to everything we discussed: 

• Louis Armstrong House Museum
• Yale School of Drama
• Backstory of Satchmo nickname (Video)
• Louis Armstrong birthplace New Orleans
• Lucille Armstrong
• Google Street View of the house 
• Queens College article about the museum (PDF)
• Louis Armstrong Center 
• Jason Moran
• Armstrong Now
• Esperanza Spalding
• Amyra Leon
• Antonio Brown
• Immanuel Wilkins
• Lisa La Touche
• Caples Jefferson Architects
• The Garden at the Louis Armstrong House (Photos)
• Regina’s current favorite song: Saint James Infirmary (Video)
• Louis in London (Amazon Music)
• Recording on a Reel to Reel machine (Video)
• Decorated tape boxes
• Louis Armstrong Digital Collection
• Washington Post article about the collection during COVID (Article)
• FBI Files on Louis Armstrong (Flipbook)
• The Little Rock 9
• Events Calendar
• Learn how to play the trumpet
• Photo of Louis Armstrong on the steps with kids (Twitter)
• Louis Armstrong in Ghana