Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: All Star Parade Of Bands 550514 Epxxx Louis Armstrong

Date: March 7, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode of "All Star Parade of Bands," broadcast from the legendary Basin Street in New York City and hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, features the iconic Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong and his band. The show is a delightful journey into the golden age of radio jazz performances, combining live music, playful banter, and classic Armstrong charisma. Listeners are transported to an era when jazz orchestras were the epitome of live entertainment, and radio was at the heart of American home life.

Key Segments and Discussion Points

1. Introduction and Setting (00:30–01:41)

• NBC Announcer sets the scene from Basin Street, New York, introducing the premise: a celebration of top jazz orchestras and a contribution to the U.S. Treasury Department.
• Louis Armstrong is introduced as the star of the night.

“From Basin Suite, here in the heart of New York City, the home of wonderful jazz...on the star podium for this broadcast transcribed it's Louis Armstrong.”
— NBC Announcer (00:30)

2. Opening Banter and First Performance (01:42–04:31)

• After brief sponsor messages, bassist Arval Shaw gets things rolling with a jovial cue to Armstrong:

“All right, take it, papa. We gonna beat out the vittle song str with some barbecue.”
— Arval Shaw (01:55)

• The ensemble launches into upbeat jazz, with Louis Armstrong's trumpet taking the lead.

3. A Push for Savings Bonds and "Blue Moon" Feature (07:16–12:22)

• The NBC Announcer weaves in a sponsorship message about U.S. Savings Bonds, seamlessly transitioning to the music:

“Join the Payroll Savings Plan where you work...Louis—Billy Kyle. Oh, Blue Moon. Blue Moon.”
— NBC Announcer (07:16)

• Pianist Billy Kyle delivers a smooth, dreamy rendition of "Blue Moon," spotlighting his skills and the band's soft swing.

4. Bass Feature: Arval Shaw and "The Man I Love" (12:22–18:24)

• NBC Announcer introduces Arval Shaw for a ballad:

“Right now, here is the fellow you heard so much bass from, Mr. Eibel Shaw, sir.”
— NBC Announcer (12:22)

• Arval Shaw leads the band through “The Man I Love,” providing a lyrical, melodic bass-centered interpretation.

5. Guest Trombonist: Trummy Young and "Old Rocking Chair" (20:04–23:52)

• NBC Announcer brings on trombonist Trummy Young for a playful, theatrical performance of "Old Rocking Chair." Louis Armstrong and Arval Shaw perform a humorous, back-and-forth "father and son" dialogue interspersed with the music, blending storytelling and jazz:

“Old rocking Chair got your problem.”
— Arval Shaw (20:48)

“I got my cane by my side.”
— Louis Armstrong (20:50)

“Son, I’m gonna tan your hide.”
— Louis Armstrong (21:02)

• The camaraderie and comic timing evoke a lively club atmosphere, with notable ad-libbed exchanges:

“You better fetch me a little water.”
— Louis Armstrong (20:56)
“You know you don't drink water, Father.”
— Arval Shaw (21:00)

• The song continues with reminiscences and playful shouts:

“You remember old Harriet?...Way up in heaven she be.”
— Louis Armstrong (21:33, 21:37)

6. Rhythm Spotlight: Barrett Deems on Drums with "Mop Mop" (25:06–26:53)

• Arval Shaw announces drummer Barrett Deems for the energetic "Mop Mop.” The driving rhythm and infectious swing showcase the band's ability to move seamlessly from lyrical ballads to brisk, danceable numbers.

7. Grand Finale: "Basin Street Blues" (26:53–30:32)

• The program comes full circle as Armstrong and the band perform the signature tune "Basin Street Blues," emphasizing the historic locale and Armstrong’s roots in New Orleans jazz:

“Yes, Basin Street is the street where the folks, they all meet in New Orleans, the land of dreams...”
— Arval Shaw (28:18)

• The ensemble shines, giving listeners a taste of Basin Street’s magic, both literally and musically.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Armstrong’s Banter with Arval Shaw:
  Their comedic father-son exchange during "Old Rocking Chair" stands out as a highlight (20:45–23:52).

• Vivid New Orleans Imagery:
  “Yes, Basin Street is the street where the folks, they all meet in New Orleans, the land of dreams...”
  — Arval Shaw (28:18)

• Promotion of Savings Bonds woven into program:
  “You know, even a small amount set aside regularly grows rapidly...each one paying back $4 for every three at maturity, extra dollars to add to your own. So begin today.”
  — NBC Announcer (23:52)

Notable Performers

• Louis Armstrong ("Satchmo") — Trumpet, vocals, bandleader, lively comedic host
• Arval Shaw — Bass, vocals, comedic foil to Armstrong
• Billy Kyle — Piano, featured soloist on "Blue Moon"
• Trummy Young — Trombone, featured on "Old Rocking Chair"
• Barrett Deems — Drums, featured on "Mop Mop"

Episode Flow & Atmosphere

The show embraces the friendly, interactive style of 1950s jazz broadcasts: playful yet virtuosic, conversational, and inclusive of the listening public. Musical performances are interspersed with encouraging messages about community and national savings, all in a warm, inviting tone. The musicians’ banter feels spontaneous and intimate—inviting listeners to feel right at home in a bustling club on Basin Street.

Segment Timestamps

• 00:30 – Episode introduction, setting the scene at Basin Street
• 01:42 – Louis Armstrong introduced; band kicks off
• 07:16 – “Blue Moon” piano feature (Billy Kyle)
• 12:22 – Bass feature: "The Man I Love" (Arval Shaw)
• 20:04 – "Old Rocking Chair" comedic duet (Trummy Young, Louis Armstrong, Arval Shaw)
• 25:06 – "Mop Mop" (Barrett Deems, drums)
• 26:53 – "Basin Street Blues" ensemble finale

Conclusion

This episode is a spirited slice of radio jazz history, underscoring the enduring charm of Louis Armstrong and his ensemble. The interplay of humor, storytelling, and world-class musicianship recreates the communal joy of the golden age of jazz and radio. Perfect for newcomers and nostalgic jazz aficionados alike, it is a vivid reminder of the energy and warmth that made radio the heart of the American home.