Jean-Louis "Popots" Winterstein

Jean-Louis “Popots” Winterstein was born on May 29, 1964 in the town of Forbach, located in northeastern France. He grew up in a family of musicians and was surrounded by music from a young age. His father was a guitarist who played in the gypsy jazz style made famous by the legendary Django Reinhardt.

He is brother of Hono Winterstein and father of Benji Winterstein

Popots began playing guitar himself as a child, and quickly developed a love for the gypsy jazz tradition. He was particularly inspired by the playing of Django Reinhardt, and spent countless hours practicing and refining his own technique.

In the years that followed, Popots honed his skills as a guitarist, playing in various ensembles and collaborating with other musicians. He became known for his virtuosic playing and his deep understanding of the gypsy jazz tradition.

In 2002, Popots released his first album, Djieske, which he recorded with the Samson Schmitt Quintet. The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish Popots as a respected figure in the gypsy jazz world.

He went on to release another album, Café Noir, which he produced himself, before teaming up with Timbo Mehrstein and his Gypsy Jazz Ensemble for the 2012 release Maré Tchavengé.

Throughout his career, Popots Winterstein has remained dedicated to the gypsy jazz tradition, and has continued to inspire and influence other musicians with his virtuosic playing and deep musical knowledge. He is widely regarded as one of the leading guitarists in the genre, and his contributions to the world of gypsy jazz will continue to be celebrated for many years to come.