* Trumpeter, singer, bandleader
* One of the most influential figures in jazz history
* Pioneered the scat singing technique
* Known as "Satchmo"
Duke Ellington
* Pianist, composer, bandleader
* One of the most important figures in jazz history
* Composed over 1,000 pieces of music
* Known as "The Duke"
Bessie Smith
* Singer
* Known as the "Empress of the Blues"
* Recorded over 160 songs
* Died at the age of 43 in a car accident
Sidney Bechet
* Clarinetist, saxophonist
* One of the first jazz soloists
* Known for his emotional playing style
* Died at the age of 62 in Paris
Fats Waller
* Pianist, singer, composer
* Known for his humorous songs and playing style
* Recorded over 600 songs
* Died at the age of 39 of pneumonia