Evolution will kick off the partnership with new products celebrating the late singer’s centennial birthday celebrations.

The Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, founded by the “First Lady of Song” in 1993, has appointed Evolution to serve as its global licensing and brand management agency.

Furthermore, the Foundation will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fitzgerald’s birthday throughout 2017 and into April 2018 with multiple initiatives honoring the singer’s career and legacy. Tentpole initiatives in the works include a concert tour, a Broadway musical based on Fitzgerald’s life and a bio-pic feature film or limited series for broadcast or SVOD. Early stage concepts are also underway for dining destinations and jazz clubs.

On the consumer products front, Evolution will seek partners for categories such as collectibles, jewelry, accessories, alcohol and publishing.

“Ella Fitzgerald has touched audiences the world over with her singular voice, transcending all races, religions and nationalities, and her passion to help families in need,” says Travis Rutherford, partner and chief revenue officer, Evolution. “To work with the Ella Fitzgerald Foundation to develop new licensing, marketing and promotional initiatives that will further the charitable legacy of Ella Fitzgerald, and increase revenues to fund its philanthropic programs, is an incredible honor, and we can’t wait to get started.”

Additionally, the Foundation has already revealed a number of 100th anniversary celebratory events including: “First Lady of Song: Ella Fitzgerald at 100 at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History; “Ella at 100: Celebrating the Artistry of Ella Fitzgerald” at The Grammy Museum; and the Great American Songbook Foundation’s “Ella Sings the Songbook” at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Ind.

Verve and UMe will also celebrate the centennial with a slate of song and album releases throughout the year.

“During my many years working with the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, I have been delighted by the love and support shown by Ella’s fans,” says Richard Rosman, president and chairman, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation. “I am thrilled to have Evolution onboard to develop Ella Fitzgerald-themed entertainment, events and officially licensed products that people have been asking for, as well as bring her legacy to a new generation of fans.”