Ella Jenkins, the woman who popularized childhood classics like “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad,” died on 9. After […]

Ella Louise Jenkins, celebrated as the "First Lady of the Children's Folk Song," passed away on Nov. 9 at the age of 100. A visionary in children's music, Jenkins revolutionized the genre, introducing young audiences to a wealth of global musical traditions and promoting inclusivity through her songs.

The African American folk singer and songwriter had decades-long career as a children's entertainer, and made a global impact through her interactive performances.

Ella Jenkins, whose revolutionary approach to children's music transformed how generations learned through song, has died on Nov. 9 at 100.