The Tragic 1941 Death Of 'Jelly Roll' Morton, One Of Jazz Music's Greatest Innovators

Publish date: 2024-05-09

In Chicago, the Library of Congress writes, Morton found success with a band known as the Red Hot Peppers (pictured above). Britannica relates that the band recorded several songs between 1926 and 1930. Per 64 Parishes, this includes "Black Bottom Stomp" and "Grandpa's Spell." Ultimately, this led to Morton's widespread notoriety. Biography explains that during this time, he was at the height of his fame and career. However, by the early 1930s, Morton's luck had run out. His music, although impressive, was viewed as dated. Morton moved to New York but his career continued to flounder. The Great Depression likely contributed to his failures.

According to 64 Parishes, Morton moved to Washington D.C. in the late 1930s. The Library of Congress states that he found work managing a jazz club. Morton continued to perform and in 1938, he was doing exactly that when he was attacked. Although the details of the incident are sparse, it's known that Morton was stabbed in the head and the chest (via KPCC). Although he survived, the injuries led to chronic respiratory problems. Morton then made the decision to return to Los Angeles. Despite his ill health, he was on a mission to revive his dying career.

Sadly, KPCC reports, Morton never got the chance for a comeback. Shortly after booking a venue to perform in Los Angeles, he was hospitalized. "Jelly Roll" Morton died 11 days after he was admitted on July 10, 1941. He was only 50 years old.

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