November 20, 1948

Barbara Hendricks, an internationally recognized leading lyric soprano, was born in Stephens (Ouachita County). Whether performing light soprano roles in traditional operatic repertory or demanding premieres of twentieth-century vocal music, song recitals, and jazz, Hendricks has been hailed as a leading artist since the mid-1970s. In addition, she is known internationally for her work for human rights and world peace.