1. Improvisation: Armstrong was a master improviser, able to create spontaneous solos that were both technically brilliant and emotionally expressive. His solos often featured innovative use of melody, harmony, and rhythm, and he was known for his ability to "scat" sing, which involved using nonsense syllables to create vocal improvisations.
2. Vocal style: Armstrong's singing voice was instantly recognizable, with a warm, gravelly tone and a unique phrasing style. He was one of the first jazz singers to use his voice as an instrument, treating it as melodic and improvisatory as his trumpet playing.
3. Trumpet playing: Armstrong was a virtuoso trumpeter, with impeccable technique and a remarkable ability to play in both high and low registers. His trumpet playing was characterized by its clarity, precision, and melodic invention, and he was known for his use of growls, bends, and other effects.
4. Leadership: Armstrong led several important big bands, including his own, and he was a sought-after session musician, playing with many of the greatest jazz musicians of the era. His leadership and mentorship helped shape the course of jazz and influenced countless musicians.
5. Popularization of jazz: Armstrong's fame and popularity helped bring jazz to a wider audience, introducing it to listeners who may not have been familiar with the genre. His recordings and performances reached a global audience and helped to establish jazz as a major musical force in the 20th century.
6. Innovation and experimentation: Armstrong was always pushing the boundaries of jazz and trying new things. He experimented with different musical styles, including swing, blues, and traditional pop music, and he was always willing to collaborate with other musicians and try new ideas.
Armstrong's influence on jazz is immeasurable and his contributions to the genre are still being felt today. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and he remains an iconic figure in the history of jazz.