Barbara Mason has been credited as the “Originator” of what is “Philly Soul”. Inspired by Major Lance as a teen, in 1965 at age 17 she penned the all-time classic ballad, “Yes, I’m Ready”. Barbara Mason established herself as a truly unique female soul artist. The writer of many of her recordings , her music reveals a young girls journey to womanhood. She has shared the stage with Curtis Mayfield, Jackie Wilson, Issac Hayes, The Temptations and countless other top artists. Her songs have been recorded, covered and sampled by an array of artists from, R&B and HipHop to the Pop and Jazz genres. Her music can be found on various Classic Soul and R&B compilations, as well as soundtracks for the motion pictures, “Auto Focus”, and the acclaimed Indie film, Jesus’ Son. Barbara Mason’s vocal style has been a major influence on the careers of many of todays leading female R&B artist such as; Angie Stone, Alicia Keys and Mary J. Blige. She has founded her own recording label and music production company, Lioness Recordings, and Mason Media Productions in addition to her music publishing company, Marc James Music.