Crab Man

Ella Fitzgerald · Other Songs - Ella Fitzgerald

Crab man

I'm talkin' about devil crabs

1'm talkin' about devil crabs

I'm talkin' about de food I sells



She crab, she crab.



Porgy

On yo' way, brother.



Crab man

Devil crab!



Maria

Hey, crab man!



Crab man

I'm talkin' about de food I sells

When I done talkin' about de food I sells

Talkin' about devil crab.

(maria picks crab, counts out money, pays crab mon,

Who then leaves.)

Now i's talkin' about yo' pocketbook

I'm talkin' about devil crabs, she crab, she crab,

Devil crab, I'm talkin' about de food I sells.

(bell chimes five times. - looks at porgy)

Crab Man - Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of 'Crab Man' stands as a quintessential example of her mastery over the swing and jazz standards of the mid-20th century. Recorded with her signature vocal precision and rhythmic flexibility, the track showcases her ability to navigate complex phrasing while maintaining an infectious energy that defined the era. As a vocalist, Fitzgerald was renowned for her 'voice of a angel,' yet she also possessed a grounded, earthy side evident in this performance. The song reflects the lively, improvisational spirit of the big band era, where vocalists often engaged in call-and-response dynamics with instrumentalists. Fitzgerald's interpretation highlights her technical skill and emotional depth, making it a cherished piece within her extensive discography and a testament to her enduring influence on vocal jazz.