
After a tumultuous adolescence, Fitzgerald found stability and success in music with the Chick Webb Orchestra. She made her debut at the Mocambo nightclub in Hollywood, where her friend Marilyn Monroe played a pivotal role in advancing her career.
Though Fitzgerald was a lonely and shy girl in New York, she dedicated herself to her performances. She did not engage much in social activities but was passionate when she joined the band. She explained, "I don't want to say the wrong thing, which I always do, but I think I do better when I sing."
Fitzgerald received 14 Grammy Awards and established a charitable foundation to give back to society through contributions to children's education, music education, and health issues.
In 1993, she gave her last performance after a 60-year career, and 3 years later, she passed away at the age of 79.