Ella Jenkins, renowned as the "First Lady of Children's Music," passed away on November 9 at the age of 100, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the world of children's entertainment. Jenkins' impact, with nearly seven decades as both singer and songwriter, transformed how music for the young audience is perceived and taught.
Jenkins' passing was confirmed by John Smith, associate director of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, which has been integral to her career, with 39 albums recorded under their banner. Her musical style weaved together influences from church music, folk traditions, and rhythms learned from children, making her approach to children's music distinctive and engaging. Known for her infectious renditions of beloved nursery rhymes like "Miss Mary Mack" and "The Muffin Man," Jenkins showcased how music could be both entertaining and educational.
Born on August 6, 1924, in St. Louis and raised on Chicago's South Side, Jenkins was surrounded by various musical influences early on, including gospel and blues. She was influenced by her Uncle Flood, who played the harmonica, and the music echoing from neighborhood churches. Jenkins recalled, "Sometimes when I would hear him play and sing, I would hum along and sometimes even whistle, though my mother said, ‘Girls and women do not whistle.’" Despite her mother’s disapproval, her passion for music never waned.
Jenkins’ career took off when she began working as a program director at the YWCA, where she started creating songs for children. Her breakthrough came when she appeared on the children’s television show "Totem Club" on WTTW, leading her to host her segment, “This is Rhythm.” This visibility propelled her career and allowed her to share her innovative music with larger audiences, including millions of children through appearances on iconic programs such as "Sesame Street," "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," and "Barney & Friends."
One of the hallmarks of Jenkins’ musical style was her signature call-and-response technique, inspired by jazz singer Cab Calloway. She said, "I thought I would make up few songs myself. Children can learn very easily by imitating, following the leader and then pretty soon be able to teach it themselves." This approach emphasized participation, making children active participants rather than passive listeners.
Her first album, "Call-and-Response: Rhythmic Group Singing" released in 1957, featured chants from diverse cultures, emphasizing the educational aspect of music. Notably, it included contributions from children, reflecting Jenkins’ commitment to involving young voices. Her dedication to authentic representation was evident throughout her career, as she focused on introducing children to various musical styles from around the world.
Jenkins was also active during the Civil Rights Movement, and her music often spoke to the realities of the Black community. Her lyrics were uplifting, employed to inspire young listeners, aiming to cultivate awareness and encourage change. She performed at significant events, including Martin Luther King Jr.'s rally at Soldier Field, adding depth to her artistic persona as one driven by advocacy.
Throughout the 1970s, Jenkins released notable albums including "We Are America’s Children," which included her rendition of Woody Guthrie’s "This Land Is Your Land." Jenkins was dedicated not just to teaching songs but also to honoring figures like Harriet Tubman and Bessie Smith through her work. By the 1980s and 1990s, her music had become synonymous with childhood experiences, with her 1995 album, "Multicultural Children’s Songs," cementing her status as the best-selling artist for Smithsonian Folkways.
Even as trends changed, Jenkins continued to thrive, earning Grammy nominations and receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. Her work transcended generations, inspiring not only her audience but also educating those who became educators themselves, emphasizing her lasting influence on childhood education.
Jenkins released her final album, "Camp Songs With Ella Jenkins and Friends," in 2017, indicating her unwavering commitment to creating music for children throughout her life. Despite remaining single throughout her life and leaving no immediate family behind, her impact on children's music and culture creates ripples far beyond her immediate associates.
Ella Jenkins was much more than just a children's musician; she was a beacon of cultural representation, advocacy, and education. Her songs will continue to be the soundtrack of childhood for many, fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and love for music. Her legacy will undoubtedly resonate within rooms filled with laughter and song for generations to come, ensuring she is remembered and celebrated for years to follow.
