AP: Trumpeter Lionel Ferbos, 102: Jazz keeps him going

STACEY PLAISANCE Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS—Music, jazz music, is what keeps Lionel Ferbos going at 102.
The Creole jazz singer and trumpeter celebrated his 102nd birthday July 17 by blowing the high notes for friends and family at the French Quarter club where he’s had a standing gig for decades. He also sang at a recent birthday bash at the National World War II Museum, breaking into “When You’re Smiling” as swing dancers shimmied.

Impeccable in a button-up shirt and tie, he posed for pictures all smiles. He cracked jokes about his age. And he relished the attention as he was serenaded both times with upbeat renditions of “Happy Birthday.”

“I thought I’d be dead at about 60,” he said, laughing.

Source: San Jose Mercury News