Barbara Mason

Barbara Mason, born on August 9, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter renowned for her distinctive contributions to the "Philly Soul" sound in the 1960s and 1970s. She began her career as a teenager with her breakthrough hit "Yes, I'm Ready" in 1965, which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

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Mason's early work was heavily influenced by the pop-oriented soul music of the time. However, as the 70s approached, she transitioned into more mature and provocative themes, embracing the emerging "Philadelphia Sound." Her 1973 song "Give Me Your Love" is a classic example of this style, featuring lush orchestration and sensual lyrics.

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In the mid-70s, Mason took control of her career, becoming one of the first female artists to establish her own production company, Marc James Music. Her 1975 album, "Love's the Thing," was the first to be released under this label.

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Throughout the 80s and beyond, Mason continued to record and perform, albeit with less commercial success. She remains a respected figure in the soul and R&B community, with her music frequently sampled by hip-hop artists.

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In 2016, she was inducted into the Soul Music Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as a pioneering figure in American music. Despite the ups and downs, Mason's career has been marked by her resilience, creativity, and her unique, emotive voice that has touched generations of music lovers.