Which artist is often referred to as the "Father of Jazz"?

The title "Father of Jazz" is most commonly associated with Louis Armstrong due to his pivotal role in the development and popularization of jazz music in the early 20th century. Armstrong's innovative approach to playing the trumpet and his distinctive vocal style helped define the genre. He pushed the boundaries of musical expression within jazz and brought improvisation to the forefront of musical performance.

His impacts include popularizing scat singing, creating a soloist's prominence within jazz ensembles, and bridging the gap between traditional jazz and the swing era. Armstrong's contributions were not limited to performance; he was also a key figure in the recording industry and played a significant role in making jazz a respected and celebrated art form globally.

In contrast, while Duke Ellington and Charlie Parker were instrumental in their contributions to the genre—Ellington in the development of orchestral jazz and sophisticated arrangements, and Parker as a major innovator of bebop—they do not carry the same historical title. Jelly Roll Morton, another influential figure, is known for his early contributions to jazz and ragtime but is often seen more as a foundational artist rather than a defining figure like Armstrong.