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.