By Kathy L. Collins
Ella Chadwell of Valrico is a singer, she is a wife and mother, and she is active in her church and community.
This long-time area resident recorded her first gospel album in 1988. “Ella” was produced and arranged by Nashville producer, Rick Powell. “Ella” has been digitally remastered and is available on CD.
In 2008, Chadwell’s life and career took a different path when she and her friend, Sandy L. de Laski worked on a fundraising event for the Women’s Resource Center. “After hearing what this organization did for women in our community, we wanted to do an event that would let people know about this organization,” explained Chadwell. The event they created featured fabulous entertainment in a dinner-theatre setting.
Chadwell was cast as a jazz club singer in the first production. “My first jazz song was ‘As Time Goes By,'” said Chadwell. “I don’t believe that I would be singing jazz today if I had not started doing this for charity. Five years have passed and we still plan dinner-theatre events,” added Chadwell.
Today, Chadwell can be found performing on the weekends at Della’s After Dark in Brandon, Formaggio’s Italian Restaurant in Lithia and at Park Square Cellar in FishHawk Ranch. Silva is Chadwell’s pianist, arranger and musical conductor.
“My life has been an amazing journey. I can’t believe at this stage of my life that I’ve been blessed to become a jazz singer,” said Chadwell.
Chadwell has been married to her first love and childhood sweetheart for 47 years. They have three children, five grandchildren and three honorary grandchildren.
Chadwell is active in her church, Bell Shoals Baptist and remains an active volunteer with the Women’s Resource Center. “My father taught me the value of giving and helping others in need. He believed that when you give from your heart, you will never lack for anything. Through the years I have found that to be very true,” said Chadwell.
Chadwell’s newest adventure is her first book, “Becoming Ella, Inspirational Memories.” For more information on obtaining Chadwell’s music and book and to learn about upcoming performances and events, please visit www.ellachadwell.com.
