Fitzgerald, Ella. (1917–1996) Signed Photograph to the parents of her pianist, Lonnie Simmons

Fitzgerald, Ella. (1917–1996)

Signed Photograph to the parents of her pianist, Lonnie Simmons

Signed ca. 1930's photograph of the legendary jazz singer, inscribed to the parents of her longtime pianist Lonnie Simmons. She has penned at the left: "To 'Lonnie's' mother & father / Best to you always / Sincerely, Ella Fitzgerald." Heavy wear and soiling, with creases, a vertical tear and two small edge tears mended with tape on the verso; not affecting the signature. 8 x 10 inches (20.6 x 25.3 cm).

The young Lonnie Simmons (born Samuel Simmons) started his career as a reed player, appearing on Fats Waller's "The Joint is Jumpin," but switched to keyboard instruments in the late 1930's. As a pianist, he appeared with Hot Lips Page and the Savoy Sultans, before joining the band formed by Ella Fitzgerald and conductor Dave Wallace. Simmons accompanied Fitzgerald until the early 1940's. (16749)

Signed Photograph Jazz