Born Barbara Ann Smith at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, she was raised in the 9th ward New Orleans, and began singing in a church choir. She was discovered by singer Jessie Hill, who recommended her to record producer Harold Battiste.
Barbara Ann Smith, born in Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana, grew up in the 9th Ward and started singing in a church choir. Singer Jessie Hill discovered her and recommended her to record producer Harold Battiste.