You may not know the name Ella Jenkins, but you have probably heard her music. For almost 70 years, Jenkin wrote and performed music for children. She performed all over the United States and around the world. Her songs include favorites such as “You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song” and “Miss Mary Mack.”
Jenkins was born on August 6, 1924, in St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up in Chicago with her mother and one brother. Growing up, she listened closely to the music of the city. She heard children chanting and clapping on the playground. She heard sidewalk vendors singing out to people passing by. She heard gospel choirs singing in neighborhood churches. And though she never learned to read music, she taught herself to sing and to play some instruments. These include ukulele, harmonica, tambourine, and drums.
Jenkins began making music for children in the 1950s. Her songs invited children to participate. This was one of the things that made her music special. She would often sing a line and have children sing it back to her. Her songs were inspired by sounds from her childhood, American folk music, and Black spirituals. They also included sounds from Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Middle East.
Jenkins had a long and successful career. She recorded 39 albums. She performed at schools and at festivals. She appeared on popular children’s shows like Sesame Street, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and Barney and Friends. She was nominated for two Grammy Awards for best children’s album. She also received a Grammy Award for lifetime achievement. Most importantly of all, she made music loved by generations of children, as well as their parents and teachers.
Ella Jenkins died on November 9, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois. She was 100 years old. She leaves behind a legacy of music that will continue to entertain and inspire children for years to come.
What Do You Think? Listen to one of Ella Jenkins’ songs online. What do you think makes it special?
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