Etta James’ mother, was only 14 when she had Etta. Her father has never been identified. Her mother was frequently absent which resulted in Etta’’s living with a series of foster parents, including “Sarge” & “Mama” Lu. During her childhood, she began regularly attending a Baptist church where she received her first professional vocal training at the age of 5 from James Earle Hines, musical director of the church. She became a soloist in the choir despite her young age & performed with them on lo

Today marks the 26th Anniversary of Etta’s 1998 album, “Life, Love and The Blues”. The album reached its peak at #3 on the Billboard Top Blues Album charts and it features both her sons, Sametto on bass and Donto on drums and percussion. | Etta James

Etta James Biography | Pantheon

Etta Jones | Jazz Vocals – Biography, Albums & More | All About Jazz