Frequently Asked Questions
How did Ella Fitzgerald get her start in music?
She won an amateur contest at the Apollo Theatre and was hired by bandleader Chick Webb. Singing with his orchestra launched her professional career and public fame.
Did Ella Fitzgerald write her own songs?
No, she was primarily an interpreter. Ella chose songs by great composers and transformed them with her phrasing, tone, and improvisation rather than writing original material.
Who were some of Ella’s famous musical partners?
She recorded and performed with many jazz greats, including Chick Webb, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson, and arrangers like Nelson Riddle.
What were the 'Songbook' albums?
A landmark series in which Ella recorded collections dedicated to major American composers (like Gershwin, Porter, and Rodgers). These albums highlighted her versatility and redefined the Great American Songbook.
What major honors did Ella receive beyond music awards?
She received top civilian recognitions, including the National Medal of Arts and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, among numerous lifetime honors.
What happened to Ella in her later years?
She slowed and eventually retired from performing due to health problems, including diabetes-related complications. She remained admired worldwide until her passing in 1996.
