The Impact of Lifestyle and Physical Demands on Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong's Vocal Cords
Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong, while hailed as some of the greatest musicians of their era, both faced significant challenges with their vocal health. Both artists partially attributed the deterioration of their singing voices to the physical and lifestyle factors they endured throughout their careers. This article delves into the reasons behind the vocal struggles of these legendary trumpeters and highlights common themes that affected their voices.
Physical Demands of Trumpet Playing
Both Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong were renowned jazz trumpet players, and the intense demands of playing this instrument undoubtedly played a role in the wear and tear of their vocal cords. The physical toll of trumpet playing involves the placement of the lips, teeth, and tongue, which can strain the vocal cords if not done correctly. While improper neck posture might cause muscle damage, it typically does not affect the vocal chords. Instead, the vibration of the lips and the pressure on the teeth, gums, and tongue contribute to vocal cord strain and degradation over years of use.
"According to his autobiography, Miles Davis underwent throat surgery around 1947-48, indicating a specific medical condition that impacted his voice. Although there were conflicting reports on the nature of the procedure, it is clear that this surgery may have been prompted by vocal strain or other health issues. Alongside this, Davis struggled with addiction to drugs like heroin and smoking, which can significantly impact overall health and voice quality.
Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Vocal Health
Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong were known for both their musical talent and their lifestyle choices, which often contributed to their vocal issues. Louis Armstrong, known for his gravelly voice and iconic performances, was a heavy smoker, consuming multiple cigars daily. Miles Davis, on the other hand, was also an smoker and struggled with addiction to heroin, which likely contributed to his vocal health problems. These habits created a dual burden on their health, particularly affecting their vocal cords and overall voice quality.
Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, emphasizes the detrimental effects of drug use on the body, including the voice. Weekly smoking of multiple cigars and the daily use of heroin not only contributed to general health decline but also directly impacted vocal health. When vocally strained, the vocal cords may develop polyps or other issues, leading to a loss of voice quality over time.
Collaboration and Conflicts
The personal and professional dynamics between Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong also contributed to their vocal struggles. The article mentions that Miles Davis was starting to form an independent group around 1947-48, which led to friction with Charlie Parker, a notorious mischief-maker. This rivalry and the stress it caused may have further strained their vocal cords and health. Additionally, Davis is characterized as a "hot head," suggesting that emotional and physical stress might have exacerbated the already existing vocal health issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vocal struggles of Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong can be attributed to a combination of physical demands of playing the trumpet, lifestyle choices, and personal conflicts. The intense playing of a brass instrument, especially without proper techniques, can lead to vocal strain. Additionally, a history of drug use and smoking exacerbates these issues, leading to the deterioration of their voices over time.