International Jazz Day

Today is International Jazz Day! When Louis Armstrong was asked what the definition of jazz was, he famously replied, "If you've got to ask, you'll never know." Today is a worldwide day of celebration of jazz and its unique history.

The official birthplace of jazz is New Orleans, although some say it began in Chicago or Kansas City. Jazz music combines traditional African American and European music styles. As jazz music caught on worldwide, it took hints from many different national and regional cultures to become what it is today. There are dozens of jazz genres including bebop, Dixieland, Latin, ragtime, soul, and swing.

International Jazz Day was created in 1991 by musician D. Michael Denny, at which time a statement was recorded by the U.S. Congressional Record to officially recognize this day. To enjoy International Jazz Day, sit back, relax, and listen to your favorite jazz tunes!