When Ella and Louis Turned ‘Summertime’ Into a Dream You Could Almost Touch

Joanna Woodnutt

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Sometimes melodies are straight magic. Especially when Jazz icons Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong teamed up it was a once in a lifetime performance. Their Summertime takes you back in time. It’s more than just a song, it was a feeling of the warmth of the evening sun on a lazy afternoon. Armstrong’s deep, raspy trumpet mixes perfectly with Fitzgerald’s silky voice to produce a sound so luxurious it seems almost fictitious.

Jazz storytelling is showcased in this performance in a masterclass. Every note carries the unfiltered emotion, the easy chemistry between two of the finest artists ever. It’s sluggish, sensuous, and mesmerizing every bit. Not only do the spectators listen, but they feel it also. Every note feels like it is hovering in the atmosphere, so you feel the need to close your eyes and let go. This is jazz in all its glory.

Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – Summertime

Still, this iconic pair would not end at “Summertime”. Working together, they have given the world some of the most memorable jazz concerts ever. Dancing over Ella’s perfect phrasing, Armstrong’s trademark trumpet solos give their tracks a fresh feel as they sound decades earlier. Their version of “Dream a Little Dream of Me” is another brilliant performance. It’s a romantic, personal, and warm embrace.

In this timeless piece Ella’s voice is light as air, floating over the melody with ease, whereas Armstrong’s instantly recognizable voice and trumpet impart a bit of extra nostalgia. Their relationship is heartfelt—evidence that wonderful music is timeless.

Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – Dream a Little Dream of Me

“Cheek to Cheek” is something you absolutely must experience if you really want to explore their remarkable collaboration further. This song ideally represents their delight in working together. Their line trading style, laughter between verses, and general delight set is irresistible. Such a show is a reminder of why these two where hailed as jazz royalty.

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Their heritage endures to motivate jazz fans and musicians both. Their music is available on all big streaming sites if you wish to listen to more of their ageless works. Neither do these two great figures; jazz never goes out of style.

Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – Cheek to Cheek