Chicago is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Ella Jenkins, known affectionately as the "First Lady of Children's Music." Jenkins passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at the age of 100, at a residential facility on the city’s North Side.
Jenkins, whose publicist confirmed the news, left behind a remarkable legacy forged through over seven decades of music. She was known for her engaging performances, which encouraged children to sing along and participate through her signature call-and-response style. Some of her most famous tunes included "You'll Sing A Song and I'll Sing A Song," "Did You Feed My Cow?" and the timeless classic "Miss Mary Mack." Her music not only entertained but also served as educational tools, helping generations of children develop memory and musical skills.
Born on August 6, 1924, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jenkins's family relocated to the South Side of Chicago when she was young. Inspired by the vibrant musical atmosphere of the city and her childhood experiences, she would go on to redefine the genre of children's music. Her first album, released in 1957, titled "Call-and-Response: Rhythmic Group Singing," set the stage for her groundbreaking career.
Over the years, Jenkins recorded 39 albums under Smithsonian Folkways, establishing herself as both a prolific artist and cultural ambassador for children's music. The musical world recognized her with numerous accolades, including being awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004, and nominations for her work on albums such as "Sharing Cultures with Ella Jenkins" and "Ella Jenkins and a Union of Friends Pulling Together."
A frequent presence on children’s television, Jenkins contributed to iconic shows like "Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood" and "Sesame Street." Her influence extended beyond music; she was also actively involved with child psychology, studying at San Francisco State University, where her passion for working with children blossomed.
Jenkins's performances were infused with joy and inclusivity, reflecting her commitment to celebrating cultural diversity through music. She traveled extensively, learning songs from various cultures and incorporating them back home, allowing young audiences to experience the world through her melodies. Ella believed firmly, as she once stated, "There is no one who has done more for young people in American musical history than Ella Jenkins," reaffirming her role as not just a musician, but as a mentor and friend to the children she encountered.
Her preferred method of engaging children involved the playful manipulation of rhythm, much of which she adopted from early musical influences like Cab Calloway. Jenkins cited Calloway’s “Hi-De-Ho” routine as pivotal to her development of the call-and-response technique: "You can say hi to friends passing by; A neighborhood is a friendly place," she often sang. This method not only encouraged listeners to interact but also nurtured their self-esteem and identity.
Cathy Fink, another prominent children's musician and close friend, praised Jenkins's dedication to sharing her love of music with the world: "You can travel around the world with Ella Jenkins through her songs. She would meet taxi drivers and ask about their countries, making each encounter an exchange of stories and culture." Fink’s admiration echoes sentiments shared by many of Jenkins's peers, who celebrated her contributions to the music industry and society as a whole.
Jenkins had just celebrated her centennial birthday earlier this August, surrounded by loved ones, and continued to spread her message of love and unity through her music until her passing. A park dedicated to her contributions and achievements resides within Chicago’s Old Town, serving as both a memorial and celebration of her life.
Throughout her extensive career, Jenkins's songs went beyond mere entertainment; they imparted lessons on kindness, sharing, and community. She often reflected on this aspect of her work, saying, "What I share is love and respect for children and all we can be together." Her life's work has left indelible marks on the fabric of children’s music, inspiring aspiring artists and children alike.
The legacy of Ella Jenkins will undoubtedly continue to resonate, echoing through the hearts of those who grew up singing her songs and those who will discover her joyful melodies for generations to come. While the music world mourns the loss of this titan of children's music, the impact of her contributions will be felt long after her final note has rung out.
Jenkins leaves behind not only her music but also the spirit of encouragement and creativity she inspired across the globe, reminding everyone of the beauty of collaboration and shared humanity.
