Louis Armstrong, often referred to as Satchmo, was one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.

Known for his exceptional trumpet playing and gravelly voice, Armstrong revolutionized jazz music and brought it to the mainstream.

Louis Armstrong performed one of the most famous version of Oh When the Saints Go Marching In.

With a career spanning over five decades, he earned multiple Grammy Awards and recorded timeless classics that continue to influence generations of musicians.

About the Song

Oh When the Saints Go Marching In is one of the most iconic songs performed by Louis Armstrong. This traditional gospel tune, with its joyful and celebratory tone, reflects the anticipation and hope of marching into heaven.

Armstrong’s version stands out with his signature improvisations and rich, soulful performance. The song remains a beloved anthem, particularly within jazz and gospel music circles.

Full Lyrics of Oh When the Saints Go Marching In

Spoken

You know folks, I happened to pass one of them good old camp meetin’s the other day, and run into a gang of them good old soul brothers. And them cats all come up on the stage, ran to sing and blow one. And we gettin’ together now and I’m gonna lead off one, yeah

Sung

Now, when them saints
(Well, when the saints)
Go marchin’ in
(Go marching in)
When the saints go a-marchin’ in
(Saints go marching in)
Oh, to be in that number, number yeah
Brother Billy and brother Tyree, they’re gonna get together there

Instrumental

Brother ? and his banjo

You know Marty Napoleon and brother Catlett gon’ back him up

Good deal there

Brother Catlett backin’ him up
Ah, see brother Danny Barcelona coming in with that (fake?)
Watch this part here comin’ up

Oh, when the saints
(Oh, when the saints)
Marching in
(Marching in)
When the saints go marchin’ in
(Saints go marchin’ in)
Oh, long to be in that number, yeah
WHen the saints go marching in

Live Performance of the Song (Live at BBC)

Similar Songs Like Oh When the Saints Go Marching In

If you appreciate Oh When the Saints Go Marching In by Louis Armstrong, you may also enjoy these similar songs by him:

• What a Wonderful World: Like Oh When the Saints Go Marching In, this song carries a message of joy and hope, celebrating the beauty of life and the world around us.
• St. Louis Blues: A classic blues song performed by Armstrong, it shares a similar New Orleans feel and soulful sound, reflecting Armstrong’s unique approach to jazz and gospel.
• La Vie En Rose: While this song is more romantic, it also shares Armstrong’s signature smooth vocal delivery and heartfelt emotion, like his gospel performances.
• Down by the Riverside: Another classic gospel song performed by Armstrong, sharing the theme of spiritual joy, life, and hope, much like Oh When the Saints Go Marching In.

Similar Artists Like Louis Armstrong

Think Louis Armstrong’s music is something for you? Consider checking out these artists, who have similarly impacted the jazz and blues genres:

• Duke Ellington
  Genre: Jazz
  Top Albums: Ellington at Newport, The Complete RCA Victor Recordings
• Bing Crosby
  Genre: Jazz, Pop
  Top Albums: Bing Crosby’s Christmas Classics, The Best of Bing Crosby
• Billie Holiday
  Genre: Jazz, Blues
  Top Albums: Lady in Satin, The Essential Billie Holiday
• Ella Fitzgerald
  Genre: Jazz, Swing
  Top Albums: Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Songbook, The Best of the Songbooks

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Originally Wrote Oh When the Saints Go Marching In?

No, the song is a traditional gospel song, but Armstrong’s version brought it to a wider audience and is one of his most famous performances.

Who Wrote Oh When the Saints Go Marching In?

The song is a traditional gospel hymn, originating in the African-American spiritual tradition.

What is the Message of Oh When the Saints Go Marching In?

The song conveys the joyous anticipation of eternal life, with the saints marching into heaven, symbolizing victory and hope.