Ella Fitzgerald was a jazz singer, songwriter, and performer who revolutionized the music world with her talent. She was admired by many of the greatest musicians in history, including Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. With such an impressive legacy, it’s no surprise that there are several documentaries about her life and career. If you’re keen to learn more about this incredible artist, here are the six best documentaries about Ella Fitzgerald. From her early life to her later years, these films provide a comprehensive look into the extraordinary life and career of one of jazz’s greatest icons. So settle in with some popcorn and learn more about Ella Fitzgerald!
1. Ella Fitzgerald | First Lady of Song
The incomparable Ella Fitzgerald – the First Lady of Song. Her vocal range, technique and skill have remained unmatched to this day. She was a truely influential figure in American music, paving the way for so many artists that followed her footsteps. Ella Fitzgerald’s career spanned decades with hits such as “A-Tisket A-Tasket”, “Dream a Little Dream of Me” and “Mack the Knife”. She has earned 13 Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts, and was also the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize.
2. ELLA FITZGERALD (First lady of song) Jazz History
Ella Fitzgerald is an artist whose influence as a jazz singer has been unparalleled. From the moment she began her career with Chick Webb, to her brilliant interpretations of the Great American Songbook, Ella’s talent and passion left an inextricable mark on jazz music. To get a true understanding of Ella’s extraordinary life, you have to watch the documentaries. From her triumphs and struggles, to her unforgettable Memorex commercials, they provide an inspirational insight into this incomparable jazz legend.
3. Tragic Things About Ella Fitzgerald
The extraordinary life of Ella Fitzgerald began in Newport News, Virginia, on April 25th of 1917. Her mother Temperance had to face the difficult task of raising her young daughter alone when her father left right after she was born. Despite this, Temperance managed to move with her daughter and a new partner to Yonkers, New York. There Ella found love and passion in music, as she was exposed to jazz records her mother brought home.
4. What’s My Line? – Ella Fitzgerald
As the season changes from summer to fall, so does my Sunday night programming. Every week I share upgraded versions of episodes that have already been posted to this channel, and tonight is no exception. Thanks to epaddon, who provided an alternate copy of the original commercials, we can now enjoy these documentaries with pristine audio quality.
5. Ella Fitzgerald Interview 1974 Brian Linehan’s City Lights
Ella Fitzgerald was a true icon of music, film, and comedy. From her classic scat singing to her appearances in St. Louis Blues and Let No Man Write My Epitaph, she made an everlasting mark on the world of art and entertainment. In this 1974 interview, Ella talks about her beginnings on stage, working with bandleader Chick Webb, and writing a song for Martin Luther King Jr.
6. Ella Fitzgerald 80’s Interview – Bobbie Wygant Archive
The award-winning Bobbie Wygant Archive recently released a stunning Ella Fitzgerald documentary. Presented in full HD, this amazing interview with the First Lady of Song has captivated audiences around the world. The film follows Ella’s career from her humble beginnings through to her later years as one of the most iconic vocalists of all time. Through archived footage and previously unseen home movies, the viewer is transported back in time to experience all facets of Ella’s life. From her grand successes on stage to her more private moments at home, this film provides a unique insight into one of music’s most influential figures.
