US American soul singer and songwriter whose smooth style influenced Rhythm and Blues.

Born February 9, 1943 in Salem, Michigan, Barbara began writing songs at age of nine, and began recording as a teenager with producer Ollie McLaughlin. She is best known for her singles ’Hello Stranger’ (which hit #3 on the Billboard charts in 1963) and ’Baby I’m Yours’ (which hit #11 on the Billboard charts in 1965).