Celebrated across generations, Ella Jenkins, known as the “First Lady of Children’s Music,” passed away at the age of 100.
Her unique approach to children’s music, combining joy with powerful cultural roots, created a lasting impact on the genre and influenced music education worldwide.
A Career That Inspired Generations
Jenkins captivated children and adults alike with timeless songs such as You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song, Did You Feed My Cow?, and Miss Mary Mack.
Over more than six decades, she built a beloved catalog of songs that were both entertaining and educational.
Her contributions to children’s music were recognized in 2004 with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor that acknowledged her role in shaping the landscape of American music for children.
A Pioneer of Call-and-Response Singing
Jenkins was known for her distinctive “call and response” style, an approach rooted in African-American musical traditions that encouraged audience participation and made her performances interactive and engaging.
Her 1957 debut album, Call and Response: Rhythmic Group Singing, reflected this style and drew inspiration from the music of enslaved African Americans, giving her songs a depth that resonated with audiences far beyond her target audience of children.
Peaceful Passing and Fond Farewells
Jenkins passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at The Harbors at the Admiral at the Lake in Chicago, as confirmed by her publicist.
The singer had been facing health challenges for some time.
Although she never married and leaves no immediate family members, Jenkins’ legacy is carried forward by the countless people touched by her music and spirit.
A Lasting Influence on Children’s Music
Through her work, Jenkins transformed children’s music into a vehicle for cultural education and interaction.
Her simple yet powerful approach to music made learning fun, built community, and sparked a love for music in her young listeners.
Today, her songs continue to be cherished by new generations, embodying a legacy that underscores her title as the First Lady of Children’s Music.
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