Today in History: Jelly Roll Morton

Jelly Roll Morton and the "Frog-I-More Rag"

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

Jelly Roll Morton bio PBS

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