Ella Fitzgerald was a famous American jazz singer who was born in Newport News, Virginia in 1917. Her parents were not wealthy, and after her mother passed away when Ella was young, she went to live with her aunt in Yonkers, New York.

As a child, Ella loved music and often listened to the radio and sang along with the songs. When she was just 17 years old, she entered a talent show at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. Ella sang a song called "Judy" by Hoagy Carmichael, and she won the contest. This led to her being offered a job performing with bandleader Chick Webb, marking the beginning of her music career.

Over the years, Ella became known as the "First Lady of Song" and the "Queen of Jazz." She recorded over 200 albums and won 13 Grammy Awards. Her music was loved all over the world, and she performed for presidents, royalty, and audiences of all backgrounds.

Despite her success, Ella faced many challenges. She grew up during a time when segregation was still prevalent in the United States, and as an African American woman, she experienced discrimination firsthand. She was not allowed to stay in the same hotels as her white bandmates and couldn't even play in many clubs. Marilyn Monroe was a big fan of Ella. She told the owner of a popular nightclub that she would come to every performance if Ella was allowed to play there. The owner said yes and Marilyn sat at the front table every night! From then on, Ella never had to play a small club again.

Ella believed in using her platform for good, and she was a strong advocate for civil rights. She performed at benefit concerts and used her voice to raise awareness about the importance of equality and justice for all people.

To "Believe like Ella" means to believe in yourself, follow your dreams, stand up for what is right, and to use your talents to make a positive impact in the world. Ella's legacy as a singer and a trailblazer will continue to inspire generations to come.