Ella Fitzgerald

1917–1996 Ella Jane Fitzgerald was an American jazz singer and band leader. She was also a civil rights activist, using her shows to break racial barriers across the nation. In 1949, she joined the Jazz at the Philharmonic tour which targeted segregated venues. The tour made sure there was no “colored” or “white” seating and… Continue reading Ella Fitzgerald

Marian Anderson

1897-1993 A Contralto, Marian Anderson performed with renowned orchestras and on the opera scene between 1925 and 1965. She started in the U.S. but performed in Europe because of segregated audiences. Anderson was an important figure in the struggle to overcome racial prejudice. In 1939, the Daughters of the American refused to allow Anderson to… Continue reading Marian Anderson