BLACK CLASSICAL ORIGINS PROGRAM: TRIBUTE TO ELLA FITZGERALD

Grammy award-winning Patti Austin has performed and recorded with Paul Simon, Michael Jackson, and George Benson, among others. In 2002 she released For Ella, featuring 11 of Ella’s most popular songs and an original tribute song. Patti holds an Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music.

Ella Fitzgerald was one of the most beloved American jazz singers of all time, often referred to as the “First Lady of Song,” the “Queen of Jazz,” and “Lady Ella.” She was known for her vocal tone, phrasing, diction, and improvisational ability—especially in scat singing. Patti Austin will bring to life some of Fitzgerald’s classics, including Satin Doll, Too Close For Comfort, and more.

Austin’s musical background makes her the perfect singer to pay tribute to the unparalleled Fitzgerald. She was born in Harlem to jazz trombonist Gordon Austin, and enjoys a varied career as a session singer in soul and R&B. Austin’s hits include backing vocals on Paul Simon’s 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, a duet with Michael Jackson on his Off the Wall album, and a duet with George Benson on Moody’s Mood for Love, among others. Austin won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album in 2008 and holds an Honorary doctorate degree from Berklee College of Music.