James Monroe Iglehart Masters Louis Armstrong’s Voice in A Wonderful World

James Monroe Iglehart, the Tony-winning Broadway star, takes center stage in A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical, capturing the jazz icon’s signature growly voice. To perfect the role, Iglehart leaned on his theater connections, including Alex Brightman (Beetlejuice), for advice on sustaining such a demanding vocal performance eight shows a week. Brightman recommended a vocal coach, and Iglehart committed to vocal exercises to build stamina, likening the process to “weightlifting for your cords.”

Iglehart describes Armstrong’s tone as “where you talk when you’re tired,” blending it with Satchmo’s distinct speech rhythms to bring the jazz legend to life. He also emphasizes microphone technique to maintain vocal health while delivering Armstrong’s iconic singing style.

Beyond starring, Iglehart co-directs the production, influenced by his experience in Hamilton. Drawing inspiration from Armstrong’s autobiographies, Iglehart advocated for Louis to narrate his own story in the show, echoing Hamilton’s famous line, “Who lives, who dies, who tells your story.”

Iglehart’s dedication to honoring Armstrong’s legacy ensures a performance that is as authentic as it is compelling, allowing audiences to connect with the life and voice of one of jazz’s greatest legends.

Source: Variety