The name Barbara Lynn may not be recognized today - however, her chart topping 1962 hit  “You’ll Lose A Good Thing” certainly will resonate with you when you hear it.

I discovered her on a blues and soul compilation record a few years ago - with more obscure 50’s/60’s artists including the Chantels.

Sometimes you can discover real gems of artists and songs, that are in the deep cuts of compilation albums - and from there you can discover more of their history and back catalog.

Barbara Lynn is one such artist - not a household name - but a remarkable history nonetheless for this accomplished left handed guitarist (with a unique style) and songwriter.

Born in Beaumont Texas in 1942 and performing locally ,her first break was in 1962 recording her composition and hit "You'll Lose A Good Thing” at Cosimo Matassa’s J and M Studio in New Orleans.

Session players included a young Mac Rebennack AKA Dr John.

This studio’s cultural significance is worthy of a feature in its own right.

Her song was a number 1 hit in the US Billboard R&B chart and a Top 10 in the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Barbara Lynn was a trendsetter and unusual at the time for a female black songwriter and guitarist to focus on her own compositions.

She toured with the R&B greats at that time, including : the Temptations  , Ike and Tina Turner , Sam Cooke , Jackie Wilson , Marvin Gaye etc.

She had her tunes covered by the Rolling Stones as well as ska and reggae artists.

However by 1970 her career -as well as record company interest and consequently record buyers demand for her work ,waned.

Retiring from the music business in the 70’s and 80’s  - she has had a renaissance and appreciation in later years - a Blues Foundation Pioneer Award in 1999 - and appearance in a recent 2015 documentary film “I Am The Blues”.

Go check out this accomplished and pioneering artist from the golden period of R&B and be inspired!

More info here:

https://www.arts.gov/honors/heritage/barbara-lynn

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2wQyX5625x6IGls8zLLHMB