Louis Prima: the Life, Legacy, and Identity of a Jazzman

Louis Prima: the Life, Legacy, and Identity of a Jazzman a conversation with historians Will Friedwald and Bruce Boyd Raeburn, Ph.D is in conjunction with the exhibition Louis Prima: Rediscovering a Musical Icon.

Louis Prima: Rediscovering a Musical Icon is a new exhibition produced by the IAMLA in collaboration with the Gia Maione Prima Foundation that explores the life and legacy of Louis Prima (1910 -1978), a skilled jazzman, prolific songwriter, and extraordinary performer. Although Prima is no longer a household name, his music is omnipresent, from film and television to viral TikTok videos, Disney tunes, and hit covers by contemporary artists.

The exhibition examines Prima’s New Orleans background and inspirations, his rise to success, artistic prowess, and his role in shaping two of the nation’s entertainment capitals—New York and Las Vegas. Prima, a Grammy Award-winning, multimillion-dollar hitmaker, was also unapologetically Italian American during a time when such proud displays of ethnicity were frowned upon. He helped pave the path for other performers, including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Perry Como.

Through hits such as “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail,” and “Angelina,” as well as personal effects, memorabilia, and rare images, Louis Prima: Rediscovering a Musical Icon will enable visitors of all ages to discover, or rediscover, this groundbreaking performer and true legend of the music world.

The exhibition and event are produced in collaboration with the Gia Maione Prima Foundation. Additional support by #ItalianSonsAndDaughtersOfAmerica, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, De Pietro Family, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs Josephine Mahoney Family.Special thanks to New Orleans Jazz Museum @TulaneUniversitySpecialCollections El Pueblo Historical Monument

Host or Publisher The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles