Billie Holiday was one of many influential jazz singers during the period known as the Harlem Renaissance. Billie Holiday was born on April 7, 1915 as Eleanora Fagan and began singing in local clubs and renamed herself “Billie” after the film star Billie Dove (“Billie Holiday Biography”). At age 18, Holiday was discovered by producer John Hammond who was impressed by Holiday’s performance at a jazz club in Harlem (Charles). Billie had a thriving career as a jazz singer until she died at age 44 due to heart and liver complications. Although she lost her battle of addiction that led to her death, Billie Holiday is not remembered as a tragic figure of the Harlem Renaissance, but she is remembered as one of the best jazz singers that ever lived.
Ella Josephine Baker was born on the day of December 13th in 1903. She died eighty-three years later on her birthday in 1986 (Ransby, 2003). Her story that is told by scholars is found between these years and are looked at today by many and found influential by most. During her lifetime she played many roles including, daughter, student, waitress, writer, a wife, and a civil rights organizer (Ransby, 2003). Her most valued role observed and studied today was her valued part as a civil rights organizer.
She hated it and ran away in 1934, leaving her homeless. Later on, Ella was determined to make something out of herself and started singing and dancing for change in the streets of Hudson. Then, in November of that year, she entered a competition at Apollo Theatre and won for best new talent after she sang. Then, in January of 1935, Ella won another competition at the Harlem Opera House, similar to the one she won at the Apollo Theatre. Ella was inspired by Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, and the Boswell Sisters.
Ella Fitzgerald is an internationally recognized jazz artist who dominated the 20th century. Born in Newport News, Virginia in 1917, the American singer enjoyed a childhood where she could develop her musical talents. For a time, she had a normal childhood, playing baseball, dancing, and seeing shows at the Apollo Theater in Harlem (“Biography”). The 1930’s were filled with tragedy for Fitzgerald. Her mother died in 1932, leaving Ella in the care of her aunt (“Biography”).
Ella Jane Fitzgerald Ella Jane Fitzgerald sang well and became very well known in her lifetime, causing her to win many awards. She was a Jazz singer for most of her life, and was adored by many people despite being faced with discrimination. Her music is still appreciated today. She sang jazz songs and was able to go from a high note to a low note within seconds.
Often referred to as "The First Lady of Song," Ella Fitzgerald was one of the most popular female jazz singers in the United States. Throughout her career, Ella was awarded thirteen Grammys and sold over 40 million albums. With a voice that not only encompassed a large range, but a dynamic and powerful sound, Ella could sing almost anything from scatting to the popular tunes of her day. She performed in the top venues all around the world to packed houses, with audiences as diverse as the music she created. Ella came from a small town and impoverished family, but through her talent and determination, skyrocketed to fame creating a legacy that has withstood the sands of time.
