Discover Empowerment Through Ella Fitzgerald Quotes
What made Ella Fitzgerald’s voice captivate millions and earn her the title “First Lady of Song”?
A pioneering jazz vocalist who broke racial barriers and won 13 Grammy Awards, Ella Fitzgerald transformed American music with her perfect pitch, innovative scat singing, and unmatched vocal range.
I’ve gathered 20 of Ella’s most powerful quotes that reveal the wisdom, determination, and soul behind her legendary career – from her thoughts on music and success to her views on life and perseverance.
These words, straight from the heart of jazz royalty, will inspire you to find your own voice and chase your dreams with the same passion that made Ella a legend.
20 Inspiring Ella Fitzgerald Quotes That Will Move Your Soul
Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.
Ella Fitzgerald
Passion isn’t optional; it’s essential. When love fuels your actions, even setbacks become stepping stones. Dive in with heart and inspiration, and you’ll find that the path you carve is your own masterpiece.
It isn’t where you came from, its where you’re going that counts.
Ella Fitzgerald
Your past is just a chapter, not the whole story. Where you’re headed defines the real narrative of your life. Focus forward—where you go next is what truly shapes who you are.
The only thing better than singing is more singing.
Ella Fitzgerald
Joy isn’t a finite resource. Doubling down on what lights you up isn’t indulgence—it’s essential. Let your passion echo. The more you embrace what you love, the fuller your life becomes.
Music is the universal language … it brings people closer together.
Ella Fitzgerald
Music isn’t just sound; it’s a bridge. In a world of barriers and divisions, it’s your tool to connect beyond words. Let it remind you that unity is only a beat away.
I know I’m no glamour girl, and it’s not easy for me to get up in front of a crowd of people. It used to bother me a lot, but now I’ve got it figured out that God gave me this talent to use, so I just stand there and sing.
Ella Fitzgerald
Embrace your stage, imperfections and all. Your unique gifts are not meant to be hidden—they’re your superpower. When you own your talent, you inspire others to find courage in their authenticity.
I stole everything I ever heard, but mostly I stole from the horns.
Ella Fitzgerald
Creativity isn’t theft; it’s transformation. Just like jazz, your life is an improvisation of borrowed notes and personal flair. Embrace your influences and play your unique tune—it’s how you create magic.
I’m very shy, and I shy away from people. But the moment I hit the stage, it’s a different feeling I get nerve from somewhere; maybe it’s because it’s something I love to do.
Ella Fitzgerald
Shyness isn’t a cage, it’s a cocoon. When passion takes the stage, it transforms you into who you’re meant to be. Find what lights you up, and let it be your guide to breaking free.
I don’t want to say the wrong thing, which I always do. I think I do better when I sing.
Ella Fitzgerald
Words can trip you up, but music? It’s pure expression. When you find your voice, whether in melody or action, you transcend fear and connect deeply. So, let your true rhythm guide you—it’s where authenticity thrives.
I guess what everyone wants more than anything else is to be loved. And to know that you loved me for my singing is too much for me. Forgive me if I don’t have all the words. Maybe I can sing it and you’ll understand.
Ella Fitzgerald
Love transcends language when words fall short. It’s the silent melody between hearts, making understanding deeper than dialogue. Let your actions sing the love you wish to convey; sometimes, that’s all anyone needs to hear.
Some kids in Italy call me ‘Mama Jazz; I thought that was so cute. As long as they don’t call me ‘Grandma Jazz.’
Ella Fitzgerald
Titles carry weight, but they also evolve. ‘Mama Jazz’ is a testament to influence beyond age—a celebration of legacy without the confines of time. Embrace the names life gives you, but remember, it’s your rhythm that defines them.
I’ve had some wonderful love affairs and some that didn’t work out. I don’t want to dwell on that and I don’t want to put people down, but I think all the fabulous places I’ve been, the wonderful things that have happened for me, the great people I’ve met – that ought to make a story.
Ella Fitzgerald
Love’s a journey, not a tally of wins and losses. Your life isn’t defined by the heartbreaks, but by the vibrant tapestry of experiences and connections. Embrace each chapter, because your story is richer than any single affair.
The fabulous places I’ve been, wonderful things that’ve happened, great people I’ve met ought to make a story.
Ella Fitzgerald
Stories aren’t just for telling—they’re for living. Every person you meet and place you explore adds a page to your unique narrative. Embrace your journey, because you’re the author of an adventure that’s unfolding every day.
When we were at the Apollo, Holiday was a block away. I asked her for her autograph.
Ella Fitzgerald
Icons are closer than you think, yet only action bridges the gap. This story reminds you that opportunities often linger just a step away—waiting for your courage to seize them. So, next time you find yourself near greatness, reach out and make it yours.
Sometimes when we’re flying or in the hotel, I might run over songs, or in the bathroom.
Ella Fitzgerald
Creativity doesn’t clock out; it finds you in the quiet moments. Beyonce’s process reminds you that inspiration thrives in the mundane. Embrace those unexpected bursts of creativity—they’re your secret weapon.
[On bebop years] All I did was sing ‘How High the Moon.’ It seemed like the only song I ever sang.
Ella Fitzgerald
Repetition can feel like a prison, but mastery often hides in monotony. When you dive deep into one thing, you uncover layers others miss. Embrace the redundancy in your life—it might just be your gateway to greatness.
She has been more famous, over a longer time span, than any other female singer.
Ella Fitzgerald
Fame is fleeting, but legacy endures. Her voice isn’t just an echo through time; it’s a testament to defying the ephemeral nature of celebrity. Ask yourself, what will your echo be when the spotlight dims?
Whatever she does to my songs, she always makes them sound better.
Ella Fitzgerald
Collaboration is your secret amplifier. When someone enhances your work, it’s not just improvement—it’s transformation. Seek those who elevate your creations, and watch your potential soar beyond imagination.
She is amazingly creative, bringing so much more to a song than just a singer. She is a first-class musician and the most gracious person in the world.
Ella Fitzgerald
Creativity is your superpower, not just a title. Like her, you can transform any role into an art form by infusing it with passion and grace. Embrace your creativity, and watch how it elevates everything you touch.
Ella knows her way around her voice as very few people today. But there are times when she seems to be unaware there are things the human voice just doesn’t do. She does them.
Ella Fitzgerald
Ella redefines limits, daring where others doubt. Her voice proves that boundaries exist only in the mind, not in reality. What “impossible” will you conquer today?
Listen to her voice, don’t look at her.
Ella Fitzgerald
In a world obsessed with appearances, listening is your superpower. Her voice carries stories, truths, and wisdom that no image can capture. Tune in, and you’ll discover depths that sight alone could never reveal.
Harmonizing Life Through Ella’s Wisdom
These 20 Ella Fitzgerald quotes resonate with an enduring grace and soulful wisdom that continue to inspire generations.
In an era craving authenticity and resilience, her words remind us to embrace our unique voice and face life’s challenges with courage.
Let Ella’s timeless insights guide you to find your rhythm and compose your own masterpiece.
Because, as she beautifully teaches us, the true magic lies in singing your song, no matter the stage.