Indian man revives Louis Armstrong's spirit in Paris with surprise stage performance. Netizens say, ‘What a Wonderful World!'

Economic Times

20-07-2025

In a heartwarming moment on the streets of Paris, Indian singer Carlton Braganza stunned a crowd by joining an Australian band to sing Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World.' With a voice strikingly similar to Armstrong's, Braganza's impromptu performance turned into a viral sensation, reminding everyone of music's power to unite beyond borders. (Screenshot: Instagram/ carlton.braganza)
In the heart of a summer evening in Paris, beneath soft lights and the casual buzz of a street performance, magic unfolded—not in fireworks or grandeur, but in the unmistakable timbre of a voice that felt like it had time-travelled straight from the soul of jazz legend Louis Armstrong.
It started with an impromptu gesture. As the Australian band Adam Hall and The Velvet Playboys entertained a lively Parisian crowd with their rendition of 'What a Wonderful World,' they turned to the audience and invited a quiet-looking Indian man onstage. No one knew what to expect.
But as Carlton Braganza took the mic and sang the first note, time seemed to stand still.The man's voice—gravelly, warm, and deeply reminiscent of Armstrong's signature growl—sent a ripple of astonishment across the crowd. The band stopped in awe for a beat. Cheers erupted. What began as a casual street gig had transformed into an unforgettable performance.
In a now-viral video circulating on social media, Braganza, dressed in relaxed casuals, stands confidently under the open Parisian sky, surrounded by musicians and an enchanted audience. The Australian band follows his lead as he pours soul into every note of the timeless classic.
For those unfamiliar with the name, Carlton Braganza isn't just a lucky passerby. He is an acclaimed Indian singer who rose to online fame during the COVID-19 lockdown for his soulful virtual performances from home. Braganza's initiative, Jukebox Jammies, brought solace to thousands stuck in isolation—offering nightly concerts filled with classics, banter, and heart. But even with his growing digital fan base, few could've predicted that a spontaneous moment in Paris would showcase his voice on such a global stage. 'Paris is amongst my fave places in the world!' Braganza later wrote on Instagram. 'To be asked to join on that last song was special! Thank you @adamhallmusician and the velvet playboys. You guys were a vibe!'The comments on the viral video capture the sentiment that words can barely contain. 'He's got the gruffy voice as Louis Armstrong🔥❤️🙌 Love!' wrote one user. 'This band genuinely was impressed! Well done, mate,' said another. Many, especially from India, expressed pride: 'You're making us Indians proud.' And the one comment that echoed the moment's magic: 'What a wonderful world!'