01:03
Ella Jenkins Highlight
Ella Jenkins
Children's Songwriter
You can't be discouraged…whatever you do, [make sure] it's something worthwhile. That's what you're sharing.
About Ella
- Her uncle would play harmonica in his free time; as a child, she was captivated by the sound.
- Mother put in extra hours at work to buy Ella her own harmonica.
- She was a teenage director for the YWCA; everyone always wanted Ella to perform because she'd make up cute songs and dances.
- Eventually, someone mentioned that she should start seriously recording her children's songs; was introduced to a record executive.
- Says every professional has to acclimate themselves to criticism; people have told her her songs are "the worst," she doesn't get discouraged.
- Never had formal harmonica training; says she just thinks about the tune, then she plays it.
- Makes her feel good to be able to share her music, know she's leaving a positive impact.
- Says, "if there's something you like, and it's not harmful to other people, and it's helping people grow, that's a plus."
