Biography
Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton (ca. 20th October 1890 – 10th July 1941) was a ragtime pianist, bandleader and composer. His exact birth date is disputed. A baptismal certificate gives the 20th Oct 1890. However Morton himself claimed 20th September 1885, his World War I draft card shows 13th Sept 1884 and his death certificate the 20th Sept 1889. He was born into a Creole community in downtown New Orleans, Louisiana. Widely recognized as an innovater and pivotal figure in early jazz. Morton wrote dozens of songs, including "Wolverine Blues", "Doctor Jazz Stomp", "Red Hot Pepper" and "Mint Julep".
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