Marilyn Monroe

Ella Fitzgerald "The First Lady of Song" for more than 50 years!

Answer:

To quote Ella: “I owe Marilyn Monroe a real debt. It was because of her that I played the Mocambo, a very popular nightclub in the ‘50’s. She personally called the owner of the Mocambo and told him she wanted me booked immediately, and if he would do it, she would take a front table every night. She told him – and it was true, due to Marilyn’s superstar status – that the press would go wild. The owner said ‘yes’ and Marilyn was there, front table, every night. The press went overboard. After that, I never had to play a small jazz club again. She was an unusual woman – a little ahead of her times. And she didn’t know it.”

Source: www.Ellafitzgerald.com

Come out and celebrate "Jazz Appreciation Month" with our tribute to Ella Fitzgerald and other great jazz divas, with the Candice Reyes Quintet, April 5, 2009! See our "Calendar" for more details!