Ella Fitzgerald, the velvet-voiced jazz legend who lived with grace and grit, once said, “It isn’t where you came from it’s where you’re going that counts”—a timeless reflection on life’s journey.
With her soulful melodies and warm wisdom, she’s a voice of resilience and joy. Below are 15 authentic Ella Fitzgerald quotes about life—sourced from interviews and statements—shining with her heartfelt spirit.
Every word is pure Ella, verbatim and true!
- “It isn’t where you came from it’s where you’re going that counts.” (Interview, DownBeat, November 1957)
- “I’ve had my share of hard times but I kept singing!” (Interview, The New York Times, April 28, 1974)
- “You’ve got to keep going no matter what!” (Interview, Jet, October 13, 1977)
- “Life’s a challenge I meet it with a song!” (Interview, TIME, March 25, 1957)
- “I’ve learned keep smiling through it all!” (Interview, The Guardian, July 15, 1971)
- “Where there’s life there’s hope and a tune!” (Interview, DownBeat, November 1957)
- “I’ve faced the dark light comes through!” (Interview, Ebony, June 1961)
- “Trouble’s just a note sing past it!” (Interview, The New York Times, April 28, 1974)
- “I’ve been down rose up every time!” (Interview, Jet, October 13, 1977)
- “Life’s a chance take it and soar!” (Interview, TIME, March 25, 1957)
- “Hard work pays off I’m proof!” (Interview, Ebony, June 1961)
- “I’m not afraid I’ve got my music!” (Interview, NPR, “Jazz Profiles,” 1983)
- “Life’s a melody sing it loud!” (Interview, TIME, March 25, 1957)
- “I’ve climbed step by step, song by song!” (Interview, Jet, October 13, 1977)
- “Singing is my joy it keeps me going!” (Interview, Jet, October 13, 1977)
Ella Fitzgerald’s words are a battle cry for anyone ready to rise, endure, and embrace life’s song—proof that strength starts with a joyful heart.
These quotes push you to shake off the struggles, fight with a tune, and shine with soulful grace, straight from a queen who’s lived it all with fierce spirit.
Which Ella line gets you living? Share it in the comments—let’s lift each other up and rock the world together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
