Ella Fitzgerald Popular Songs Ranking [2025]

Early AutumnElla Fitzgerald22rank/position

Early Autumn

Ella Fitzgerald stands alongside Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan as one of the defining female jazz singers of the 20th century.

If you’ve dabbled in jazz even a little, you’ve probably heard her voice at least once.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend for September is Early Autumn.

As it’s a piece that depicts autumn, it pairs perfectly with September.

It’s also a standard, so there are many covers out there.

Be sure to compare her version with those by other singers.

Frosty The SnowmanElla Fitzgerald23rank/position

Ella Fitzgerald – Frosty The Snowman (Official Video)

Ella Fitzgerald, America’s premier female jazz singer, brings “Frosty the Snowman” to life with her captivating, resonant voice in a performance brimming with swing and drive.

Recorded by many musicians over the years, the song has become a Christmas-season staple.

Ella Fitzgerald released her version in 1960.

Her rendition of “Frosty the Snowman” will continue to be listened to and celebrated as an eternal Christmas standard.

Good Morning BluesElla Fitzgerald24rank/position

Ella Fitzgerald – Good Morning Blues

Ella Fitzgerald, a legend in the jazz world.

She has released several Christmas albums, and this is a Christmas song from one of them, A Swinging Christmas.

It’s recommended for those who think, “Instrumentals are nice, but jazz is all about the vocals!”

Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasElla Fitzgerald25rank/position

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Originally written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane and used in the 1944 musical Meet Me in St.

Louis.

It has been covered by many artists, including Frank Sinatra and Sam Smith.

This version is by Ella Fitzgerald, the pinnacle of female jazz singers.

How High the MoonElla Fitzgerald26rank/position

Ella Fitzgerald- “How High The Moon/Epic scat” LIVE 1966 [RITY Archives]

Here is a jazz standard that weaves a moving love story.

Sung by Ella Fitzgerald, known as the Queen of Jazz, this piece is memorable for its poignant lyrics that compare the emotional distance between lovers to the height of the moon.

Her clear voice and masterful scat singing further enhance the song’s charm.

Since its premiere at Carnegie Hall in September 1947, it has continued to captivate many fans.

It’s a perfect track not only for jazz enthusiasts but also for those troubled by love—a classic to savor on a quiet night.

It’s Only a Paper MoonElla Fitzgerald27rank/position

Ella Fitzgerald – It’s Only a Paper Moon

Set against a fantastical world of paper moons and cardboard seas, this classic song depicts how love makes reality shine brighter, all gently embraced by the warm, tender voice of America’s own Ella Fitzgerald.

Recorded in March 1945 in collaboration with the Delta Rhythm Boys, the piece blends a buoyantly swinging melody with deeply affectionate vocals in perfect harmony.

It’s a gem that captures, with a bright and optimistic tone, how meeting a beloved person can illuminate the ordinary day-to-day.

Featured in many works—including the 1973 film “Paper Moon”—it’s a perfect choice for welcoming a new season and sharing a heartwarming moment with someone special.

My Funny ValentineElla Fitzgerald28rank/position

My Funny Valentine (Late Show – Live (1958/Chicago))

Here’s a minor-key ballad from 1937 by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart that suits Japanese tastes.

The lyrics tell a pure love story: my beloved Valentine isn’t pretty and isn’t smart, but I want her just the way she is.

Both the melody and the lyrical flow are slow, making it an easy song to try.