Glossy vintage 8x10” bw publicity photo with Gale Inc. Management address and “Ella Fitzgerald Featured With Chick Webb And His Orchestra” text at margin (see Chick Webb lot #2298). Superb c. late 1930s publicity photo shows “The First Lady Of Song” in a pensive pose. Known for her vocal range and improv ability, Fitzgerald won 13 Grammy awards and was awarded the National Medal of Art as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Performing with the Tiny Bradshaw Band at the Harlem Opera House in 1935, Fitzgerald met band leader Chick Webb who gave her a chance try out for his band, leading her to sing regularly with them though 1935 at the Savoy Ballroom. Upon Webb’s death in Jun., 1939, Fitzgerald took over his band , re-naming it “Ella Fitzgerald And Her Famous Orchestra.” She went solo in 1942. Signed in blue ink, most of Fitzgerald’s inscription is illegible to us but wishes success and happiness. Lt. vertical crease with tiny crack in photo emulsion on Ella’s cheek. Lt. handling wear at margins. Fine overall. Signature area remains Exc. Signed photo comes with a bw publicity still showing Ella singing with the Chick Webb Orchestra, also a Gale Inc. Management publicity photo. From the Richard Merkin Collection and comes with Hake’s COA.