Bolden is a remarkable jazz cornetist and a pivotal figure in the genesis of jazz music. Born in 1877 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Bolden's innovative style and improvisational prowess earned him a legendary status in the vibrant music scene of the early 20th century. Often heralded as the first jazz musician, his band was a sensation, playing in dance halls and parades, which laid the groundwork for the jazz movement. Despite his profound influence, Bolden's career was tragically cut short due to mental health struggles, leading to his institutionalization in 1907. His legacy, though not documented through recordings, endures through the musicians he inspired and the history he shaped.