Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald (1917–1996), known as the “First Lady of Song,” was a defining voice of American jazz. Explore her biography, musical journey, legacy, and inspiring quotes.
Introduction
Ella Jane Fitzgerald—born April 25, 1917, and passing June 15, 1996—was one of the most celebrated and beloved jazz singers of the 20th century. Often called the “First Lady of Song” or “Queen of Jazz,” her voice was admired for its purity, range, impeccable diction, and improvisational brilliance—especially her mastery of scat singing. Over a nearly six-decade career, she left a vast recorded legacy, broke down racial and gender barriers, and inspired generations of singers across genres.
Early Life and Family
Ella Fitzgerald was born in Newport News, Virginia. Yonkers, New York, where Ella and her half-sister Frances (born from Tempie’s later relationship) grew up.
Ella’s childhood was not easy. In her early teens, she faced poverty, instability, and conflict within her blended family.
Youth & Musical Beginnings
At age 17, Ella entered a talent contest at the Apollo Theater in Harlem—originally intending to dance, but choosing to sing under pressure—and won. This performance became her launchpad.
In 1935, she joined the Chick Webb Orchestra, a big band led by drummer Chick Webb, regularly performing in Harlem’s Savoy Ballroom and recording popular numbers. “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” in 1938 (a nursery rhyme she adapted) became a massive hit and solidified her commercial success.
Career & Achievements
Rise as a Leading Voice
After Webb’s death (in 1939), Ella continued her solo work, touring and recording with other prominent jazz musicians.
A key turning point was her Songbook series (1950s–1960s), where she recorded albums focused on the works of individual composers (e.g. Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin).
Her live performances remain iconic. For example, Ella in Rome: The Birthday Concert (recorded April 25, 1958) is celebrated for capturing her joyous voice in concert. Ella in Berlin is one of her most famous concert albums.
She was incredibly prolific: she won 13 Grammy Awards in her lifetime and was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1967. Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and others.
Later Years & Health
In later years, Ella’s health declined. She suffered from diabetes, which led to the amputation of both her legs below the knee in 1993. 1993.
Ella Fitzgerald died on June 15, 1996, in Beverly Hills, California, of a stroke, at the age of 79.
Legacy and Influence
-
Ella Fitzgerald is often regarded as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time, remembered for her tonal clarity, rhythmic feel, phrasing, and improvisational skill.
-
Her Songbook recordings remain benchmarks for interpretations of American standards.
-
She helped open more doors for Black female artists in a segregated, male-dominated industry.
-
Her career is preserved in archives at institutions such as the Smithsonian and the Library of Congress.
-
Her influence endures: many singers across jazz, pop, and R&B cite her as a foundational inspiration.
Famous Quotes by Ella Fitzgerald
Here are some selected quotes attributed to her:
“It isn’t where you came from, it’s where you’re going that counts.” “Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” “The only thing better than singing is more singing.” “Coming through the years, and finding that I not only have just the fans of my day, but the young ones of today — that’s what it means; it means it was worth all of it.”
These quotes reflect her perseverance, love for music, and belief in progress and purpose.
Lessons from Ella Fitzgerald
-
Embrace your voice and your path. Ella didn’t begin with perfect circumstances, but she leaned into what she could do best—sing—and made it her life.
-
Persist through adversity. Despite poverty, instability, and health challenges, she sustained a world-class career for decades.
-
Musical curiosity and growth matter. Her embrace of various styles (jazz, swing, pop standards) and collaborations kept her work evolving.
-
Honoring tradition while innovating. Through her Songbook recordings she paid tribute to great composers, while her scat and improvisation pushed boundaries.
-
Legacy is built not just by glory, but by consistency and integrity. Her lasting reputation comes from both talent and character.