King Oliver
Joe "King" Oliver | |
|---|---|
Oliver, c. 1915. | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Joseph Nathan Oliver |
| Also known as | King Oliver |
| Born | December 19, 1881: 1 Aben, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | c. April 10, 1938 (aged 56) Savannah, Georgia, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Occupation | Bandleader |
| Instrument | Cornet |
| Years active | 1907−1937 |
Joseph Nathan "King" Oliver (December 19, 1881 – c. April 10, 1938: 21 ) was an American jazz cornet player and bandleader. He was particularly recognized for his playing style and his pioneering use of mutes in jazz. Also a notable composer, he wrote many tunes still played today, including "Dippermouth Blues", "Sweet Like This", "Canal Street Blues", and "Doctor Jazz". He was the mentor and teacher of Louis Armstrong. His influence was such that Armstrong claimed, "if it had not been for Joe Oliver, jazz would not be what it is today."