As Mel Torme used to say of Ella "She could do no wrong"

And Mr. Torme was right, she could do no wrong. These singles are swingin.' No they are obviosly not on the same level as her Songbooks or concept albums, but they are very good for being attempt at commercial hits, though there are few standards, Ella was in prime voice here, and the orchestra's taht back her up are the top names. This will fill a big gap in Ella's fans colelctions. This essential cd should be owned by fans who thought there was nothing left of Ella's to be put onto cd! A great cd set, well worth acquiring for the jazz fan, or pop fan.

Undiscovered Ella

I was so surprised when I listened to this 2 CD set. I'd never heard most of the recordings included! How often does that happen with an artist as well represented as Ella Fitzgerald? Not very often. When it does happen you have to jump on the opprotunity. I'm so glad I picked up this set. I can't imagine not having tracks like "I'm A Poached Egg", "The Secret Of Christmas", "Dreams Are made For children" and "Too Young For The Blues" in my collection now. HIGHLY recommended.

On a side note, the packaging is superb. It's a cardboard tri-fold in pastel colors. This discs themselves are imaginatively decorated and there is a 16 page bookelt included.

"first installment on the complete singles ~ Ella!"

Norman Granz, Ella's manager knew a good thing when he took her under his wing ~ even though a contract was never signed between them, love and respect was there right from the start. The latest release from Verve Records "Jukebox Ella:The Complete Verve Singles 1", features Ella during the early days with this label ~ a delightful bit of improvisation is on every cue. Her style is so timeless that you're instantly amazed and she's got you hooked line and sinker. This is a great introduction to her career which blends a vibrant expressive signature approach to each song.

A wonderful compilation of Seasonal and Chart hits ~ some stand outs are prevalent "BEALE STREET BLUES", "SWINGIN' SHEPHERD BLUES", "DREAMS ARE MADE FOR CHILDREN" which are some of the lesser known tracks ~ "BILL BAILEY WON'T YOU PLEASE COME HOME?", "WE THREE, MY ECHO, MY SHADOW AND ME", "THE SHADOW OF YOUR SMILE" and "DESAFINADO" reflects her impeccable interpretation giving you the impression you've heard this song for the first time.

The highlight is "THE SECRET OF CHRISTMAS", which has become one of my favorite songs for the Holiday Season ~ only Ella could melt my heart with her sweetness that surfaces with every phrase she sings. Her talent for singing has never been equalled ~ Ella's musical career has always been top notch...gotta love it!

Total Time: 2-CD-Set ~ Verve B0000092-02 ~ (9/30/2003)