Ella Fitzgerald, also known as the “First Lady of Song,” was a legendary American jazz vocalist. Born in Virginia in 1917, Fitzgerald grew up in poverty and began singing in a school talent show at the age of 15. She soon began performing at clubs and theaters in Harlem and was discovered by bandleader Chick Webb, who became her mentor and helped her launch her career.
Fitzgerald’s singing style was characterized by her pure, clear voice, perfect intonation, and improvisational skills. She became known for her scat singing, a vocal technique that involves singing improvised melodies and rhythms using nonsense syllables. She was also known for her ability to interpret lyrics and bring emotion to her performances.
Over the course of her career, Fitzgerald recorded over 200 albums and won 13 Grammy Awards. She collaborated with many of the greatest musicians of her time, including Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie. Some of her most famous recordings include “Summertime,” “Mack the Knife,” and “A-Tisket, A-Tasket.”
In addition to her musical achievements, Fitzgerald was also a trailblazer in the fight against racism and discrimination. She broke down barriers by performing at venues that had previously been segregated and was an advocate for civil rights.
Ella Fitzgerald’s influence on jazz and popular music is immeasurable. Her talent and artistry continue to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world.
1. Cow Cow Boogie
“Cow Cow Boogie” is a popular song from the swing era, first recorded by Ella Mae Morse with Freddie Slack and his orchestra in 1942. The song features a lively and infectious melody with lyrics that combine western and boogie-woogie themes. The song’s catchy chorus and Morse’s powerful vocals helped make it a hit, and it has since become a classic of the swing and jump blues genres. “Cow Cow Boogie” has been covered by numerous artists, including the likes of Ray Charles, Asleep at the Wheel, and Glenn Miller, and its upbeat rhythm and playful lyrics continue to inspire listeners today.
2. Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall
“Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall” is a classic jazz and pop standard originally recorded by the Ink Spots and Ella Fitzgerald in 1944. The track features a slow tempo and showcases Fitzgerald’s smooth and emotive vocals, as well as the Ink Spots’ signature harmonies. Lyrically, the song is a duet that explores the ups and downs of life, suggesting that everyone experiences setbacks and challenges at some point. The production of “Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall” is characterized by a mix of jazz and pop elements, including a gentle piano accompaniment and a string section, creating a poignant and melancholic atmosphere. The song has become a beloved classic in jazz and pop music and has been covered by various artists over the years.
3. I’m Making Believe
“I’m Making Believe” is a romantic jazz and swing song originally recorded in 1944 by Ella Fitzgerald and The Ink Spots. The song features the signature harmonies of The Ink Spots, with Fitzgerald’s soulful vocals adding a touch of elegance and emotion. The lyrics express the idea of being lost in a daydream, imagining a life with the one you love. The song became a hit during World War II, providing a moment of escape and romance for audiences. “I’m Making Believe” remains a classic in the jazz and swing genres, showcasing the incredible vocal talents of two musical legends.
4. Can’t Buy Me Love
“Can’t Buy Me Love” is a classic rock and roll song by the Beatles, released in 1964. The track features a catchy melody and showcases the band’s signature harmonies and energetic performance style. Lyrically, the song is about the importance of love over material possessions and the idea that money can’t buy happiness. The production of “Can’t Buy Me Love” is characterized by a blend of rock and roll and pop elements, including a lively guitar riff and a driving drumbeat, creating a fun and upbeat atmosphere. The song became a commercial success and has become a beloved classic in the Beatles’ catalog, recognized as one of their most iconic and memorable tracks.
5. It’s Only a Paper Moon
“It’s Only a Paper Moon” is a popular song written by Harold Arlen, with lyrics by E. Y. Harburg and Billy Rose. The song was first featured in the 1933 film “Take a Chance” and has since become a standard in the jazz and pop repertoire. The song’s lyrics are whimsical and lighthearted, featuring imagery of a paper moon that is only an illusion. The song has been covered by countless artists, including Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra, and remains a beloved classic with its catchy melody and optimistic message.
6. But Not for Me
“But Not for Me” is a classic jazz standard, composed by George and Ira Gershwin in 1930. The song has been recorded by many jazz and pop artists over the years, including Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra. The lyrics express the feelings of unrequited love and heartbreak, with the singer lamenting that the one they love does not feel the same. The melody is known for its melancholic and bittersweet sound, with the song becoming a beloved classic in the jazz genre. “But Not for Me” continues to be performed and recorded by contemporary artists, maintaining its timeless appeal.
7. I’m Beginning to See the Light
“I’m Beginning to See the Light” is a popular jazz song composed by Duke Ellington, with lyrics by Don George, Johnny Hodges, and Harry James. The song was first recorded in 1944 by Duke Ellington and his orchestra and has since become a jazz standard. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of falling in love and the sense of clarity that comes with it. The song has been covered by many artists, including Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, and Michael Bublé, and remains a beloved classic in the jazz and pop repertoire with its catchy melody and romantic lyrics.
8. A-Tisket A-Tasket
“A-Tisket A-Tasket” is a playful and upbeat swing song, composed by Ella Fitzgerald and Van Alexander in 1938. The song features Fitzgerald’s signature scatting style, with lyrics about a lost basket and the search to find it. The melody is infectious and the song became a huge hit, launching Fitzgerald’s career as a major force in the jazz world. “A-Tisket A-Tasket” has since become a beloved classic, remaining a staple in jazz and swing music and inspiring countless covers and reinterpretations. The song’s fun and lighthearted spirit captures the joyful essence of swing music and Ella Fitzgerald’s vocal prowess.
9. Mack the Knife
“Mack the Knife” is a jazz standard written by Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht for their 1928 musical, The Threepenny Opera. The song became a worldwide hit in 1959 when it was recorded by Bobby Darin in a swing arrangement, featuring a big band and brass section. The track features a catchy melody and showcases Darin’s smooth and dynamic vocals. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a notorious criminal named Mack the Knife and his criminal exploits. The production of “Mack the Knife” is characterized by a mix of jazz and pop elements, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The song has become a classic in both jazz and pop music and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
10. Summertime
“Summertime” is a classic jazz song from the opera “Porgy and Bess” composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by DuBose Heyward and Ira Gershwin. The song was first introduced in 1935 and has since become a standard in the jazz repertoire, covered by countless artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday. The song’s lyrics describe the beauty and languor of summer and the hope for a better life. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “Summertime” remains a beloved classic and a testament to the enduring power of jazz music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
