Ella Jane Fitzgerald (April 25, 1917 – June 15, 1996) was an iconic American jazz singer from Newport News, Virginia, celebrated worldwide as the “First Lady of Song,” the “Queen of Jazz,” and “Lady Ella.”
Despite facing racism throughout the music industry from the 1930s to the 1980s, she broke barriers by becoming the first Black woman to win a Grammy Award.
Over her remarkable career, Fitzgerald earned 13 Grammy Awards and sold more than 40 million albums.
Known for her flexible, wide-ranging, and timeless voice, she was admired for her impeccable diction and extraordinary scat singing style.
From humble beginnings, Ella Fitzgerald became a beloved musical legend admired across all communities.
About the Song
“Summertime” is a timeless jazz standard made famous by Ella Fitzgerald’s soulful interpretation. Originally written for the opera Porgy and Bess, the song combines soothing melodies with jazz and blues influences.
Fitzgerald’s expressive vocals and smooth delivery helped make the track one of her most memorable performances.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Album | Porgy and Bess |
| Release Date | 1964 |
| Writer | DuBose Heyward & George Gershwin |
| Producer | Norman Granz |
Summertime Lyrics by Ella Fitzgerald
Chorus
Summertime and the livin’ is easy
Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high
Oh, your daddy’s rich and your ma is good-lookin’
So hush little baby, don’t you cry
Verse 1
One of these mornings
You’re gonna rise up singing
Yes you’ll spread your wings
And you’ll take to the sky
But ’til that morning
There ain’t nothin’ can harm you
With Daddy and Mammy standin’ by
Chorus
Summertime, and the livin’ is easy
Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high
Oh, your daddy’s rich and your ma is good-lookin’
So hush little baby, don’t you cry
Oh don’t you cry
Oh don’t you cry
Don’t you cry
Oh don’t you cry
Live Performances of Summertime
Live at Deutschlandhalle, Berlin, 1960
Similar Songs Like Summertime
If you liked Summertime by Ella Fitzgerald, these songs will likely make it into your playlist as well.
- Dream a Little Dream of Me: Soft and romantic jazz ballad where Ella Fitzgerald’s warm vocals create a dreamy and comforting atmosphere.
- Misty: Showcasing Fitzgerald’s smooth phrasing and elegant jazz style, a gentle classic filled with emotional depth.
- Blue Skies: An uplifting jazz tune featuring Ella’s bright vocals and playful scat singing that highlight her vocal versatility.
- Someone to Watch Over Me: Fitzgerald’s timeless ability to express emotion is captured through this heartfelt and tender performance.
Similar Artists Like Ella Fitzgerald
Here are some more artists that will move your soul like Ella Fitzgerald.
- Louis Armstrong
Genre: Jazz, Swing
Top Albums: What a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong Plays W.C. Handy, Satchmo Serenades - Billie Holiday
Genre: Jazz, Blues
Top Albums: Lady in Satin, Songs for Distingué Lovers, Body and Soul - Sarah Vaughan
Genre: Jazz, Bebop
Top Albums: Sarah Vaughan with Clifford Brown, After Hours, Swingin’ Easy - Nina Simone
Genre: Jazz, Soul, Blues
Top Albums: I Put a Spell on You, Pastel Blues, Little Girl Blue
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Ella Fitzgerald’s Version of “Summertime” Unique?
Ella Fitzgerald’s version stands out for its smooth vocal tone, emotional delivery, and effortless scat-inspired phrasing that brought new life to the jazz classic.
Was “Summertime” Originally Written as a Jazz Song?
No, “Summertime” was originally composed for the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess before becoming one of the most recorded jazz standards in history.
Why is “Summertime” Still Popular Today?
The song’s timeless melody, emotional lyrics, and versatility across jazz, blues, and soul genres continue to attract new listeners and artists worldwide.
