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| Barbara Ingram passed away in October 1994 from lupus. The following article was written by a friend and fan of Ms. Ingram, Linda DiStefano. It was approved by Barbara's cousin and fellow "Sweetie" Carla Benson. My heartfelt thanks to both ladies for the time and effort involved. |
| Barbara Ingram was born the second of nine children to Reverend N. Henry and Vera Ingram of Camden, NJ. Their family was large and built on a foundation of faith and love. Music was an integral part of the Ingram family, so it was no surprise that Barbara pursued a career in music.
In the early 70s, during a conversation with her friend, Thom Bell, Barbara learned of a new record label starting up in Philadelphia. The label was seeking session singers. She had just completed a brief stint as a Raelette and was hoping to find vocal work in her hometown. Barbara called her cousin, Carla Benson, who was studying voice at Glassboro State. Carla suggested her best friend, Evette Benton, a special education major, to complete the trio. The three put together an impromptu audition, drove to Philly, and the rest is history. Producer after producer came into the studio that day to hear what later became known as the “Godblend.” Their first session was “Pool Of Bad Luck” with Joe Simon. Since then, they have appeared on thousands of recordings with countless artists -- from Lou Rawls to MFSB to Englebert Humperdinck. These talented ladies were dubbed “The Sweethearts of Sigma,” “The Philadelphia Angels,” “The Sweethearts,” and finally “The Sweeties” by Patti LaBelle, with whom they toured extensively. The Sweeties can be seen on Patti’s 1985 NBC-TV special, as well as a “Sesame Street” appearance with Patti. One of Barbara’s more memorable appearances on record was as the sensual voice on Major Harris’ hit “Love Won’t Let Me Wait.” She was Teddy Pendergrass’ love interest in “Come Go With Me.” She recorded and performed with her brothers in the family group “Ingram;” and with her fellow Sweethearts, released a 12” in the mid-80s on the Streetwise label entitled “You’re Wearing Me Out.” Barbara also wrote and produced for many others. Barbara struggled with lupus for many years. However, she rarely missed a beat -- music was such an important part of her life. But even more important than music was family. Barbara adored children. Whether at home in New Jersey or Virginia, children would surround her and that’s when she was happiest. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, songwriter/producer Sherman Marshall (“Lady Love,” “The Whole Town’s Laughing at Me”), and her daughter, Denene. She touched many lives before she entered into her eternal rest in October 1994. She will forever be missed. |
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