What makes Ella in Hamburg by Ella Fitzgerald notable?

'Ella in Hamburg' is notable for its critical acclaim, showcasing Fitzgerald's ability to reinterpret classic songs with fresh emotional depth. The album exemplifies the peak of live jazz recordings in the 1960s and has influenced countless jazz vocalists since its release, highlighting her enduring impact on the genre. Released in 1965, 'Ella in Hamburg' captures Fitzgerald during a time when she was solidifying her legacy as one of jazz's greatest vocalists. This live album showcases her improvisational prowess at a pivotal moment in her career, following her rise to international fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Who is Ella in Hamburg for?

Ella in Hamburg works well if you're into steady flow with emotional peaks, for late-night relaxation and uplifting vibes for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Ella in Hamburg?

Ella in Hamburg has 12 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Ella in Hamburg

Ella Fitzgerald

48 min · 12 tracks · jazz · soul · swing

Ella Fitzgerald's voice glides effortlessly through a vibrant mix of jazz standards and bossa nova rhythms.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady flow with emotional peaks
for late-night relaxation
uplifting vibes for casual gatherings
headphone detail hunting moments
nostalgic standards with vibrant energy

Maybe skip if you want

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek high-energy party anthems

Where this album fits

Themes: live jazz energy· Hamburg nightlife· Duke Ellington tribute
Career context: Released in 1965, 'Ella in Hamburg' captures Fitzgerald during a time when she was solidifying her legacy as one of jazz's greatest vocalists. This live album showcases her improvisational prowess at a pivotal moment in her career, following her rise to international fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Stylistic neighbors: Billie Holiday· Sarah Vaughan· Louis Armstrong
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Lady in Satin by Billie Holiday — Captures a similar emotional depth with lush orchestration and heartfelt vocal delivery.

I Put a Spell on You by Nina Simone — Shares a live performance energy and bold, expressive interpretations of jazz standards.

Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker — Features intimate vocal performances with a smooth, understated jazz backdrop, echoing Fitzgerald's style.

New to Ella Fitzgerald? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Walk Right In 3:43
2 That Old Black Magic 4:20
3 Body and Soul 4:46
4 Here’s That Rainy Day 3:41
5 And the Angels Sing 4:00
6 A Hard Day’s Night 3:21
7 Ellington Medley: Do Nothin’ Til You Hear From Me / Mood Indigo / It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) 6:38
8 The Boy From Ipanema 3:04
9 Don’t Rain on My Parade 3:19
10 Angel Eyes 3:39
11 Smooth Sailing 4:07
12 Old McDonald Had a Farm 3:51

What to play next

Listen next

Ella at Juan-Les-Pins

Full Ella Fitzgerald discography Where to start with Ella Fitzgerald Artists like Ella Fitzgerald

jazz soul swing

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata