Dites-Moi
Ella Fitzgerald · Ella Sings Broadway [1957]
Pourquoi
La vie est belle,
Dies-moi
Pourquoi
La vie est gai,
Dites-moi
Pourquoi,
Chere Mad'moiselle,
Est-ce que
Parce que
Vous m'aimez?
Dites-moi
Pourquoi,
Chere Mad'moiselle,
Est-ce que
Parce que
Vous m'aimez?
Tell me why
The sky is filled with music,
Tell me why
We fly on clouds above
Can it be
That we
Can fly to music
Just because,
Just because
We're in love?
Dites-Moi
Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of 'Dites-Moi' stands as a testament to her unparalleled command of phrasing and tone. Featured on the 1957 album Ella Sings Broadway, this recording captures the First Lady of Song at the height of her interpretive powers. While the title translates to 'Tell Me' in English, Fitzgerald delivers the French lyric with a warmth and precision that transcends language barriers. The track exemplifies her ability to inhabit diverse musical styles, moving seamlessly from jazz standards to theatrical selections. This performance highlights her sophisticated approach to vocal storytelling, utilizing subtle dynamic shifts to convey emotion without relying on overt dramatics. As part of a celebrated discography that spans decades, this recording remains a cherished example of her mastery in bringing Broadway material into the realm of high art.

