(5) Statue of Jazz Singer Ella Fitzgerald, located in the courtyard of the Yonkers Metro North Station

Ella Jane Fitzgerald was born in Newport News, VA.  But, following her parents separation, her mother moved her to Yonkers, NY, which she later claimed as her hometown.  Fitzgerald became one of the most famous American jazz vocalists in the world.  She had a 3-octave vocal range, and was dubbed “The First Lady of Song” as the result of her popularity.  Fitzgerald sang ballads, jazz and could imitate any orchestra instrument.  Her career lasted over 50-years, affording her the opportunity to work with legendary singers and musicians such as orchestra leader/singers, Duke Ellington and Count Basie, singers Nat King Cole & Frank Sinatra, and musicians Dizzy Gillespie & Benny Goodman.

I think that that statue is a very nice interpretation of Ella Fitzgerald.  It has been placed in a great section of downtown Yonkers – the courtyard of the Yonkers Metro North station.  Commuters and pedestrians can sit in her presence during favorable weather, and during the summer months people can walk around the corner to hear some of the jazz favorites made popular by Fitzgerald during the summer outdoor concert series held at the pier overlooking the Hudson River.