8. Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald, celebrated as the “First Lady of Song,” enchanted audiences with her pure, agile voice and impeccable pitch. Her virtuosic scat singing set a new standard for vocal improvisation, as heard in classics like “How High the Moon” and her legendary Songbook series. Fitzgerald’s remarkable range and joyful swing made her one of jazz’s most beloved interpreter. Her influence remains unmatched in both jazz and popular music. Discover her story in the Smithsonian biography.
