Today in History: Jelly Roll Morton
Today in History–July 10–the Library of Congress features jazz pianist Jelly Roll Morton, who died on this day in 1941. Born Ferdinand Joseph La Menthe in New Orleans, Louisiana, Morton billed himself as “Jelly Roll” while playing minstrel and vaudeville shows. In addition to jazz, Morton also played ragtime, blues and spirituals. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to access more jazz resources from the Library.
Jelly Roll Morton from America’s Library
Jelly Roll Morton and the “Frog-I-More Rag” American Treasures from the Library of Congress
“London Blues” score by Jelly Roll Morton American Treasures from the Library of Congress
“Wolverine Blues” song recording composer, Jelly Roll Morton
Jelly Roll Morton historical newspaper coverage
Mister Jelly Roll, Mister Lomax and the Invention of Jazz streaming webcast
Related resources