Ella Fitzgerald Tribute

The beautiful Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. is a serious patron of the Arts, and a real friend to Jazz. One year ago, I sang there in a tribute to the great Benny Golson (in “Whisper Not”). His compositions and sax are legendary. At that time I was invited to come back this year and sing the Ella Fitzgerald tribute with the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Big Band, featuring Antonio Hart and Jimmy Heath with Dee Dee Bridgewater and Janis Siegel (Manhattan Transfer). It was a blast smash and sold out.

The collection of music that was played and sung really was a story about the broad variety and sophistication of Ella’s work (all the way from “A Tisket, A Tasket” to “How High the Moon” and “Cotton Tail.”

It was a real gala with audience on the edge of their seats all night. Dee was marvelously wild, polka dots and moon beams. Janis was preciously sophisticated, cool, and nimble. The band, conducted by saxist Antonio Hart (great player), played fine work all night.

Dee and I sang “Makin’ Whoopee” and Janis and I did “Let’s Call The Whole Thing Off.”

Janis and Dee were on point and breathed fresh sparkle into some great classics. The spirit and buzz of that evening will last and last. Thank you again, Kennedy Center. Kevin Struthers is a prince. Thanks, Big Band. Dee and Janis….. I love you.

Love, Al