FIRST LADY OF JAZZ

"It isn't where you came from, its where you're going that counts."

"The only thing better than singing is more singing."

"I stole everything I ever heard, but mostly I stole from the horns"

"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."

"I'm very shy, and I shy away from people. But the moment I hit the stage, it's a different feeling I get nerve from somewhere; maybe it's because it's something I love to do"

"Kids in Italy call me 'Mama Jazz; I thought that was so cute. As long as they don't call me 'Grandma Jazz."

"One of these mornings your goin to rise up singing. Then you'll spread your wings and you'll take the sky.

The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald, would have turned 100 years old this year had she not passed away June 15, 1996. Also known as the Queen of Jazz and Lady Ella, Fitzgerald was born in Virginia April 25, 1917, grew up in Yonkers, NY and rose to fame after she competed in one of the first Amateur Nights at the Apollo. As her career progressed, Fitzgerald performed as a solo artist and collaborated with jazz greats including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie. Her scat singing skills helped usher in the bebop era of jazz. Later, Fitzgerald returned to more classic arrangements in an attempt to find a wider audience. Her Cole Porter Songbook and Great American Songbook recordings had more universal appeal and sealed her legacy as one of the most talented American singers. In honor of Fitzgerald’s 100th birthday, I do believe I'll sprinkle the week with some of my favorite Lady Ella songs.

Happy Birthday Lady Ella!!

Up first is Ella singing a lively Mack the Knife.....