The name of Ella Fitzgerald in the history of jazz and swing music in USA is irreplaceable. Here, we look at some of her famous tracks.

1. 5 Tracks by Ella Fitzgerald: The Timeless &
Iconic Jazz Queen
One of the greatest singers of the 20th century, Ella Fitzgerald was popularly known as ‘The First Lady
of Jazz’. A soulful singer, she balanced her melodious voice with skillful technique and touching
sensitivity. With a voice that reached three octaves, Ella was a true champion of scat singing. Her
contribution to the popularity of jazz and swing music in USA cannot be measured in words. In this
blog, we take a look at some of her most significant recordings.
A-Tisket, A-Tasket
Recorded and released in 1938, this sweet spin on the popular nursery rhyme was Ella’s first
commercial hit. Only 21 years of age, she sang this song with Chick Webb and His Orchestra that
launched her into the national spotlight. During her first tour with Webb’s band, Ella was heard singing
the children’s lullaby in the car. One of the band musicians suggested that they rearrange the melody to
be performed on stage. Ella’s expressive delivery of the playful lyrics accompanied with a tight horn
arrangement gives the song an easily danceable beat. It became an instant hit among the listeners,
making the singer a household name. In the 1942 film, Ride ‘Em Cowboy, Ella made her onscreen
debut performing this song on the silver screen.

2. Cheek to Cheek
It would be amiss to talk about Ella Fitzgerald’s musical contribution without talking about her most
successful collaboration with fellow jazz icon, Louis Armstrong. Their version of “Cheek to Cheek,”
originally written in 1935 by Irving Berlin, was released in 1956 as part of their first album together,
Ella and Louis. The duet rendition showcases how very well their voices complemented each other.
Louis’ raspy tone is a perfect foil to Ella’s smooth and refined voice. The song’s groovy tune and their
obvious rapport make the version an enduring classic.
Airmail Special
The Queen of Jazz was known for her exceptional scat singing abilities. With clear diction, flawless
delivery, and powerful lungs, Ella Fitzgerald could easily jump into scat outbursts that transformed a
candid performance into an immortal one. “Airmail Special” was recorded live in 1957 at the Newport
Jazz Fest, and the track is a true testament to her brilliance. The performance is cleverly interspersed
with excerpts from other songs like “Davy Crocket,” “Jingle Bells,” “The Christmas Song,” “Amore,”
and many more. As the singer effortlessly hops between different melodies and instrumental imitations,
the immaculate timing and seamless modulation make this one of Ella’s greatest recordings ever. It is
a singular triumph of her singing ability.
The Lady Is A Tramp
A Broadway show tune written by Lorenz Hart and composed by Richard Rodgers for their 1937
musical “Babes in Arms,” early recordings of this song were covered by Tommy Dorsey and His
Orchestra, Midge Williams and Her Jazz Jesters, Sophie Tucker, and many more. It became a signature
tune for Frank Sinatra who crooned the song in the 1957 film version of “Pal Joey”. The duet version
by Fitzgerald and Sinatra is a boisterous performance recorded live as a part of the 1967 TV special,
“Frank Sinatra – A Man and His Music”. Two of the greatest jazz talents coming together make this
track truly special. It is one of the very few recordings of the duo performing together.
Dream A Little Dream of Me
Originally recorded by Ozzie Nelson in 1931, the song has been covered by many artists throughout
the ‘30s and ‘40s. But the Ella and Louis version of the track, released in 1956, stood out proudly among
all others. Accompanied by Sy Oliver’s Orchestra, Ella’s voice rises above the pack with her beautiful
voice and passionate rendition. Her flirtatious delivery is matched perfectly with Louis’ sultry croon
and trumpet playing. This recording is just one more shining example of the musical brilliance that
Fitzgerald and Armstrong were together.
Conclusion Evergreen and iconic, Ella Fitzgerald has always been one of the reigning queens of jazz
and swing music in USA. Her songs continue to top the charts and bring joy to listeners each time
they’re played. The First Lady of Song has an enviable discography and all her songs remain timeless.
Read the full article: https://swingstreetradio.wordpress.com/2021/08/07/5-tracks-by-ella-
fitzgerald-the-timeless-iconic-jazz-queen/
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