by Emma Herder
Since taking over as the host of Sunday Standards, I’ve been trying to find good jazz music. I’ve spent a lot of hours in the car, in my room, and with my family listening to jazz. While on the search for new music, I found one of the most comforting albums I think I’ve ever heard in my entire life: Ella for Lovers.
This album became very personal to me, and I’ve spent a lot of time playing a mix of different jazz legends on the show. As my Spotify was playing songs recommended for me, I heard the softest familiar voice. There was something different about the voice in this song, though, and I clicked on the album from which the song came, and I put myself in a trance. There’s something so calming about Ella Fitzgerald’s voice and it feels like stepping into a softer and slower world where nothing is rushed and everything just sounds the way it’s supposed to. Ella features many other artists on this album, including Paul Weston, Ellis Larkins, and Louis Armstrong.
Ella’s music is always pretty simple but in the best way possible. There aren’t a lot of crazy compositions or insane riffs in her songs. Her music is composed of just smooth instruments and clear vocals. “Moonlight in Vermont” is one of the best examples of just how smooth and romantic her vocal range is. Listening to this album reminds me of how powerful music can be and how healing it is.
I know a lot of people can’t go throughout their day without listening to music, and that’s how I am, as well. I’m also someone who deals with a lot of anxiety and I need slower and calmer music. This album has allowed me to give myself a break and forget about a lot of problems that I’m facing. There’s a peaceful feeling that comes from it, like everything’s going to be fine.
On another note, Ella Fitzgerald is very nostalgic for me as I come from a household of musicians. I’ve grown up on Ella Fitzgerald’s music and a lot of other jazz artists because of my father. Her music has always been an outlet for me, and I can truly lose myself in her songs. She’s one of the many jazz artists who gave a sort of blueprint for many of today’s artists. If you ever need to slow down and just forget about your troubles, Ella Fitzgerald has the perfect music for it.
