A pioneering female musician who blended blues, R&B, and rock to create a unique sound, known for her soulful voice and left-handed guitar playing.
Known for her chart-topping hit "You'll Lose a Good Thing" in 1962, Barbara Lynn is an American rhythm and blues and electric blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who paved the way for female musicians in a male-dominated industry.
Born on January 16, 1942, in Beaumont, Texas, Barbara Lynn Ozen, later known as Barbara Lynn Cumby, was raised Catholic and sang in her local parish choir. She began playing piano as a child but switched to guitar, which she plays left-handed. Inspired by blues artists Guitar Slim and Jimmy Reed, and pop acts Elvis Presley and Brenda Lee, she created an all-female band, Bobbie Lynn and Her Idols.
Lynn's big break came when singer Joe Barry introduced her to producer Huey P. Meaux, who ran SugarHill Recording Studios and several record labels in New Orleans. Her first single, "You'll Lose A Good Thing," written by her, was recorded at Cosimo Matassa's JM studio with session musicians including Mac Rebennack (Dr. John). Released by Jamie Records, it was a number 1 US Billboard R&B chart hit and Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hit in 1962.
The song's success led to Lynn touring with renowned soul musicians like Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, Jackie Wilson, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, James Brown, and Al Green. Her unique blend of rhythm and blues, electric blues, and soulful vocals set her apart from her contemporaries.
In 2018, Lynn received a National Heritage Fellowship, a prestigious award recognizing her contributions to American culture.
Lynn's music and career embodied the spirit of empowerment and independence, inspiring generations of female musicians to take control of their own creative destiny.
Throughout her career, Lynn has been recognized for her trailblazing efforts, including being one of the first female African American singers to write most of her own songs and play a lead instrument.
Lynn's music continues to influence contemporary R&B, soul, and blues artists, cementing her legacy as a pioneering figure in American music history.
Barbara Lynn's groundbreaking career serves as a testament to her talent, perseverance, and dedication to her craft, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
88 Years Old
A legendary blues singer known for her powerful, soulful voice and classic hits like "At Last" and "I'd Rather Go Blind".
Born in 1894
A powerful blues singer known for her soulful, raspy voice and emotive performances, often referred to as "The Empress of the Blues".
Born in 1886
A pioneering blues singer-songwriter known for her powerful, soulful voice and hit songs like "Bo-Weavil Blues" and "See See Rider". She was a key figure in the development of Chicago blues.
Born in 1913
A blues legend who electrified the genre with his signature sound and influential hits like "Hoochie Coochie Man" and "Mannish Boy", shaping the course of rock 'n' roll .
Born in 1910
A blues legend who electrified audiences with his powerful voice and guitar playing, creating a unique sound that influenced many rock and roll artists.
Born in 1917
A legendary blues musician who mesmerized audiences with his unique, boogie-woogie guitar style and soulful vocals, creating a distinctive sound that influenced many rock and roll artists.
97 Years Old
A rock 'n' roll pioneer who blended blues, R&B, and rock to create a unique sound, influencing many famous musicians with his innovative guitar playing and songwriting style.
99 Years Old
Rock 'n' roll pioneer who wrote and performed iconic hits like "Johnny B. Goode" and "Maybellene", blending country, blues, and rhythm to create a unique sound.
