February 11. Ella Fitzgerald
A Daily Journey Through Black History Month
The First Lady of Song
Story
Ella Fitzgerald, born in 1917, is widely celebrated as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. With her impeccable tone, extraordinary range, and masterful scat singing, she transformed jazz vocals into an art form. Albums like her Songbook series showcased her ability to interpret the works of America’s greatest composers, including Duke Ellington, Cole Porter, and George Gershwin.
Fitzgerald’s career took off in 1934 when she won an amateur contest at the Apollo Theater, leading to her first recording with the Chick Webb Orchestra. Her 1938 hit A-Tisket, A-Tasket made her a household name. Over the decades, she collaborated with jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, and Frank Sinatra, captivating audiences worldwide.
In addition to these partnerships, Fitzgerald shared the stage with fellow jazz vocalists Sarah Vaughan and Carmen McRae. Though they had distinct styles, the three women embodied the golden era of jazz singing. Vaughan, known for her rich vibrato and effortless technique, often performed alongside Ella at Jazz at the Philharmonic concerts. McRae, deeply inspired by Fitzgerald, brought a more blues-infused, conversational style to jazz. The two shared the stage at events like the 1976 Montreux Jazz Festival, where McRae paid tribute to her idol.
Fitzgerald’s ability to improvise with complex rhythms and flawless phrasing set her apart. Even as jazz evolved, she remained relevant, earning 13 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Her legacy continues to inspire musicians today.
Key Quotes
- “It isn’t where you came from; it’s where you’re going that counts.”
- “The only thing better than singing is more singing.”
Cultural Significance
- Jazz Icon: Fitzgerald’s influence shaped the future of jazz and popular music.
- Barrier Breaker: She was the first African American woman to win a Grammy Award, earning 13 in her career.
Fun Fact
Ella Fitzgerald’s performance at the 1958 Grammy Awards made her the first recipient of the Best Female Vocal Performance award.
Trivia Challenge
Question: In 1955, Marilyn Monroe played a key role in helping Ella Fitzgerald secure a booking at which famous Hollywood nightclub, breaking racial barriers in the entertainment industry?
(A) The Coconut Grove • (B) The Copacabana
(C) The Mocambo • (D) The Blue Note
Why Participate?
Write your answer on the day of the Post in the Comment’s Section (include your name) below to be potentially eligible for inclusion in the 2025 Honorary ROUTES Recognition List! Those who answer at least 20 out of the 28 trivia questions correctly will earn a shoutout in our end-of-month celebration post. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the legacy!
Multimedia
Classic Performance: Ella Fitzgerald Live At The North Sea Jazz Festival • July 13, 1979
Documentary: Ella Fitzgerald with André Previn 1979
Performance Video: Ella Fitzgerald in concert Berlin 1968
Listen to: Introductions Of Ella Fitzgerald By George Wein And Carmen McRae (Live)
Watch: Ella Fitzgerald Vs Sarah Vaughan || Vocal Battle
February 10’s Trivia Answer: (B) A telephone book
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A voice that still inspires 👌🏼
My answer for the trivia is letter (C)