Ella Fitzgerald (1917–1996), known as the 'First Lady of Song,' was one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists of all time. Her pure tone, impeccable diction, and extraordinary range made her the definitive interpreter of the Great American Songbook. Fitzgerald's 'Songbook' series for Verve Records—recording the works of Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington, and others with big band accompaniment—are considered among the greatest vocal recordings ever made. Her scat singing abilities were unmatched, and her collaborations with big bands defined the art of jazz vocal performance.