Watch Ella Fitzgerald in Brussels: The American Songbook

Ella Fitzgerald in Brussels: The American Songbook is an extraordinary documentary that takes its viewers on a journey through the life of the legendary Jazz singer, Ella Fitzgerald, as she performs in one of the most iconic venues in the history of Jazz music. The movie was released in 1958 and features Fitzgerald's concert in Brussels, Belgium, which was recorded live and has become an iconic representation of her commitment to her art form.

Taking place on June 29, 1957, the concert took place in the Grand Auditorium of the Palais Des Beaux-Arts, where Fitzgerald performed to a packed house of over 2,000 attendees. This was a significant event for Fitzgerald, as it represented her first time performing on the European continent, and was part of an international tour that had taken her to four countries, including the UK, Sweden, and Denmark.

In this documentary, we also get to witness the genius of Herb Ellis, one of the most iconic guitarists in the history of Jazz music, who plays alongside Fitzgerald throughout the concert. Ellis is well-known for his contributions to the Jazz industry starting in the late 1940s, and he has played with the likes of Oscar Peterson, Jimmy Smith, and Stan Getz.

The documentary provides ample time for Fitzgerald and Ellis to display their impressive skills, as they play some of the most memorable and timeless songs from the American Songbook. The concert is full of iconic numbers, such as "It's Magic," "Love For Sale," "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," "Too Darn Hot," and "The Lady Is A Tramp," among others. Fitzgerald's awe-inspiring voice and Ellis's brilliant guitar playing combine to create a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for the audience.

The concert was also significant for its historical context, as it occurred during the height of the civil rights movement and racial tensions in the United States. Fitzgerald's performance effectively challenged America's segregationist policies, as it showcased her immense talent and helped to broaden the appeal of Jazz music across multiple cultures. In this sense, the concert and the movie are not just significant in terms of their musical content, but also for their cultural impact.

The documentary is a stunning piece of work, directed by Philippe Brunot and written by André Francis. The camera work is impeccable, with the film-maker's capturing the electrifying energy of the audience and the divine chemistry between Fitzgerald and Ellis on stage. The audience is also treated to a series of intimate moments with Fitzgerald, as she reflects on her life and discusses her musical philosophies.

Overall, Ella Fitzgerald in Brussels: The American Songbook is a must-see for every Jazz music enthusiast. It features one of Jazz's most iconic performers in a performance that encapsulates the best of the American Songbook. The documentary is a masterful portrayal of music and cultural history, and it captures the essence of an era in which art, culture, and music came together to transcend borders and barriers. This incredible concert by Fitzgerald and Ellis in Brussels continues to inspire and amaze audiences even today, over six decades later.

Ella Fitzgerald in Brussels: The American Songbook is a 1657 music movie with a runtime of 40 minutes.