Ella Fitzgerald is one of the greatest architects in the history of jazz music, with her mastery of ‘scatting,’ a vocal improvisation of sound and syllables. Fitzgerald, known as the “First Lady of Song,” was born on this day in 1917. She got her big break while performing at Harlem’s Apollo Theater at the age of seventeen in 1934. Throughout her lifetime she was the recipient of many awards, including 13 Grammy Awards (one for lifetime achievement), and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. #Becau

Ella Fitzgerald (1917­–1996) Today we remember the immortal First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald, born on this day in 1917. With her flawless pitch, expert timing, masterful phrasing, and pinpoint diction balancing an instrumentalist’s skill for improvisation, an intrinsic gift for lyrical interpretation, and a wellspring of soul, Fitzgerald possessed a truly perfect instrument for popular song. She made her public debut at age 17 during a 1934 Amateur Night at Harlem’s Apollo Theater that she ul

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