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Source: Courtesy the Fraser MacPherson estate c/o Guy MacPherson, Wikimedia Commons
For this Throwback Thursday, we celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of one of my most favorite songstresses, Ella Fitzgerald.
Born April 25, 1917, Ella was known as "The First Lady of Song" and "The Queen of Jazz." She recorded over 200 albums throughout her extensive and exceptional career, working with the wonderful talents of Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie and Frank Sinatra, to name a few.
Ella's vocals have such range of diversity that my ears hang on every smooth word she sings. And listening to her transports me to a time in American song history with big band sounds, powerful horns and the desire to swing. She can instantly brighten my day and lighten my step.
Ready to listen to Ella right now? Try The Best of Ella Fitzgerald, which is one of over 40 albums featuring her music that's instantly available on Hoopla.
In addition music, we also have several biographies to help contextualize the amazing voice with the woman she was. Here are some worthy reads:
I'll end by sharing a quote from Ella that's inspiring and motivating to me: "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."
Happy 100th birth anniversary, Ella! With your words, there is always love and inspiration.
Add a comment to: #TBT: Centennial Celebration of Ella Fitzgerald