Ella Fitzgerald (1917–1996) was an iconic American jazz singer, often referred to as the “First Lady of Song,” “Queen of Jazz,” and “Lady Ella.” Born in Newport News, Virginia, she grew up in Yonkers, New York, and faced a challenging childhood marked by poverty and the loss of her mother.

Fitzgerald’s career took off in 1934 when she won an amateur contest at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. Soon after, she joined Chick Webb’s band as a vocalist, becoming a star with hits like “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” (1938). Following Webb’s death in 1939, she led the band for a time before launching a solo career.

Known for her pure tone, impeccable diction, and unmatched scat-singing ability, Fitzgerald became a major force in jazz and pop music. Her collaborations with Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie, as well as her acclaimed “Songbook” series interpreting composers like Cole Porter and George Gershwin, solidified her place in music history.

Fitzgerald’s career spanned over six decades, earning her 14 Grammy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and countless other honors. She remains a beloved figure in American music, celebrated for her artistry and contributions to jazz.

Silver gained prominence in the early 1950s as a member of the Jazz Messengers, co-founded with drummer Art Blakey. In 1956, he formed his own quintet, which became a hallmark of hard bop with its soulful, rhythmically driven sound. He composed numerous jazz standards, including “Song for My Father,” “Sister Sadie,” and “The Preacher.”

Known for his infectious melodies, earthy harmonies, and a focus on groove, Silver’s music appealed to both jazz purists and broader audiences. His career with Blue Note Records spanned nearly three decades, making him one of the label’s most celebrated artists.

Silver received numerous accolades, including the NEA Jazz Masters Award, and his influence on jazz remains profound, inspiring generations of musicians with his distinctive style and compositional genius.

Ellington began studying piano as a child and formed his first band in the early 1920s. In 1927, he gained national recognition when his orchestra became the house band at Harlem’s Cotton Club, showcasing his innovative compositions. Renowned for blending jazz, blues, and classical influences, Ellington composed over 3,000 pieces, including standards like “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” “Mood Indigo,” and “Take the ‘A’ Train” (written by collaborator Billy Strayhorn).

A master of orchestration and collaboration, Ellington worked with some of the finest musicians of his time, including Johnny Hodges, Cootie Williams, and Paul Gonsalves. His music transcended jazz, exploring themes of identity and culture, as seen in works like Black, Brown, and Beige.

Ellington received numerous accolades, including 13 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He toured extensively until his death in 1974, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped American music and inspired generations of artists.

Basie’s career began in the 1920s as a pianist in silent movie theaters and later in vaudeville acts. His breakthrough came in 1935 when he formed the Count Basie Orchestra in Kansas City. Known for their smooth and powerful sound, the band featured iconic musicians such as Lester Young, Herschel Evans, and Freddie Green. Hits like “One O’Clock Jump” and “April in Paris” cemented Basie’s reputation as a masterful bandleader.

His style, characterized by a driving rhythm section and understated piano fills, became a hallmark of swing music. Basie collaborated with numerous jazz greats, including Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra, and his orchestra endured for decades, adapting to changing musical landscapes while maintaining its identity.

Count Basie earned countless accolades, including nine Grammy Awards, and remained active in music until his death on April 26, 1984. His influence on jazz and popular music continues to resonate, with his name synonymous with elegance and innovation in big band swing.

The band is led by Daniel Bennett on vocals and includes John Toedtman on bass, Will Toedtman on guitar, Bart Foster on drums, and Joe Auger on saxophone. This diverse group brings a mix of classic and contemporary jazz to various venues, from private events to public spaces like the Dayton Art Institute.

Their music creates a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere, appealing to both jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With an active social media presence and a dedicated fanbase, Daniel Bennett and The Dirty Shirleys continue to enchant audiences with their unique, swanky sounds.

Fourth Generation is a jazz quartet of 4-7 people. They play selections from the rich catalog of the Great American Songbook, offering music that spans five decades of jazz, swing, and standards. Perfect for events needing a refined musical backdrop, 4G delivers an elegant mix of classic tunes with a modern touch.