Barbara Lynn, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Barbara Lynn, born Barbara Lynn Ozen on January 16, 1942, and later known as Barbara Lynn Cumby, stands as a distinguished American rhythm and blues (R&B) and electric blues artist. She is celebrated not only as a soulful singer and compelling songwriter but also as a pioneering guitarist whose unique style helped shape the sound of an era.
A Trailblazing Guitarist and Songwriter
Hailing from Beaumont, Texas, Barbara Lynn emerged in the music scene as a formidable talent, especially noteworthy for being a left-handed electric guitarist in a genre predominantly dominated by male musicians. Her distinctive approach to the Fender Stratocaster, combined with her powerful yet tender vocals and insightful songwriting, set her apart. Lynn penned many of her own songs, a rare feat for artists, particularly women, at the time, showcasing her profound lyrical and melodic capabilities.
"You'll Lose a Good Thing": A Defining Hit
Lynn's career reached an undeniable peak with her iconic 1962 chart-topping hit, "You'll Lose a Good Thing." This poignant ballad, which she wrote, not only ascended to the #1 position on the Billboard R&B chart but also achieved significant crossover success, reaching the top 10 on the pop singles chart. Recorded at SugarHill Studios in Houston and produced by Huey P. Meaux, the song became a timeless classic, demonstrating her incredible vocal range and the emotional depth of her lyrics, cementing her legacy as a significant figure in soul and R&B music.
Enduring Legacy and National Recognition
Throughout her career, Barbara Lynn's influence has reverberated through generations of musicians. Her consistent artistry and innovative contributions were formally recognized in 2018 when she was awarded the prestigious National Heritage Fellowship. Administered by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), this honor is the United States government's highest award in the folk and traditional arts, acknowledging her profound and lasting impact on American cultural heritage as an electric blues and R&B icon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Barbara Lynn
- Who is Barbara Lynn?
- Barbara Lynn is an influential American rhythm and blues and electric blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, born on January 16, 1942. She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking role as a female electric guitarist and her chart-topping hit "You'll Lose a Good Thing."
- What is Barbara Lynn best known for?
- She is primarily best known for her immensely successful 1962 R&B chart-topper, "You'll Lose a Good Thing," a song she also wrote, which showcased her unique vocal style and songwriting prowess.
- What prestigious award did Barbara Lynn receive in 2018?
- In 2018, Barbara Lynn was honored with the National Heritage Fellowship, the highest award presented by the United States government in the folk and traditional arts, recognizing her significant contributions to American music.
- What makes Barbara Lynn a unique artist?
- Barbara Lynn's uniqueness stems from her being a pioneering female electric guitarist in the male-dominated rhythm and blues and electric blues genres. Her distinctive left-handed playing style on the Fender Stratocaster, combined with her talent as a singer and prolific songwriter, set her apart.
- Where is Barbara Lynn from?
- Barbara Lynn hails from Beaumont, Texas, a city known for its rich musical heritage, which undoubtedly influenced her early development as an artist.