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Richard Kamins's avatar

No argument that these are treacherous times, watching freedoms in this country and many more around the world disappear under authoritarian rule. Can you fathom the country that Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington traveled and performed in, the segregated hotels, the restaurants that closed when Black musicians walked into to eat after a long day of travel? Times change, most times for the better, but this time for the worse. Music and the arts reflect our world and often give us glimpses of a better world. Keep on playing, Vinnie, keep on writing. We're lucky to have your words and viewpoints!

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

Thanks Richard! Means a lot…

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Charles Powell's avatar

Happy 4th, Vinnie and thank YOU!

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

Thank you Charles!

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Monique Avakian's avatar

That's a very beautifully written piece, Vinnie, and so needed today. We need the joy you all create on a daily basis -- humanity would be completely lost without musicians!

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

Nice to hear from you Monique, and many thanks!

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Rob Wood's avatar

Great Vinnie! Louis can't get too much appreciation. Thanks.

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

No he cannot! Somehow, Armstrong feels underrated, in some obscure way..thanks for reading and commenting!

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Tony Alexander's avatar

Love your blog, but your comments on Mamdani hurt and saddened me. The man criticizes the government of Israel while praising the government of Pakistan for exactly the same qualities. He’s a left wing Trump whose smile hides dreams of globalizing the Intifada, a statement he endorsed. He was part of the movement to NOT vote for Kamala Harris, thus helping to give us Trump 2. I didn’t mean to go on like this, but I admire your music and writing and I foolishly imagine I might wake you up—pun intended. Keep writing as well as playing.

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

Thanks for your words Tony, I take your opinions seriously, and I’m considering what you say. Many thanks!

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George's avatar

The Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens, NY, where Armstrong lived, and where Ricky Riccardi is Director of Research Collections, has usually had a free afternoon concert in the garden on July 4 to celebrate Armstrong's birthday. This year it has been scheduled for August 2 (the Saturday nearest to August 4).

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Vinnie Sperrazza's avatar

Yes, Riccardi doesn’t rule out August 4 as Armstrong’s “true” date of birth. So fortunate to have Louis, his music, and an organization that helps keep his legacy alive. Thanks for reading!

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