Ella Fitzgerald – Mack The Knife: Ella In Berlin VG+/VG

Mack the Knife: Ella in Berlin is a celebrated live album by the renowned jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. Released in 1960, this album is particularly famous for its live performance of the song “Mack the Knife,” where Fitzgerald forgets the lyrics but improvises masterfully, showcasing her exceptional talent in jazz scat singing.

The album was recorded on February 13, 1960, at the Deutschlandhalle in Berlin, Germany. This performance was part of Fitzgerald’s European tour. The charm of the album lies not just in her improvisational skills but also in the palpable energy and interaction with the live audience, which adds a vibrant layer to the recording.

Apart from “Mack the Knife,” which originally is from “The Threepenny Opera” and was made famous in the jazz world by Louis Armstrong, the album features a variety of other classic songs. These include renditions of standards like “Misty,” “The Lady Is a Tramp,” and “Summertime.” Throughout the album, Fitzgerald’s voice demonstrates both power and subtlety, backed by a skilled ensemble of musicians, including the Paul Smith Quartet.

“Mack the Knife: Ella in Berlin” is not just an album; it’s a historical recording that captures the essence of Ella Fitzgerald as a live performer. Her ability to connect with the audience, her improvisational prowess, and her sheer joy in performing are all palpably felt in this recording. The album has since become a must-have for jazz enthusiasts and serves as a shining example of Fitzgerald’s legendary status in the world of jazz music.