Barbara Smith
Singer-Songwriter

Living in Northern Ontario, Barbara Smith is a seasoned singer-songwriter with a singular approach to her blend of folk and country with a touch of blues. Barb's live performances are captivating; you can't help but be drawn to the heartfelt intimacy in her voice. Her music has been described as "soulful and thought-provoking". 

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Barb's unique style is the result of a lifetime of listening to music. Growing up, she was surrounded by a wealth and diversity of musical styles in her family. It wasn't long after picking up a guitar that Barb was creating her own melodies and lyrics. The first album from these musicians were some of her early influences:  Susanne Vegas, Kim Carnes, Dire Straits, The Cars, The Pretenders, Tori Amos, Melissa Ethridge, Loreena McKennitt, Jewel, Cowboy Junkies and Sarah MacLaughlan. She listens to the entire discography of music from these two, Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan, and now listen to their sons, Adam and Jacob. 

As a University student, Barb performed at a variety of coffee houses, pubs and social benefits, but it wasn't until she retired from a rewarding twenty-six-year career in teaching that she was able to revisit her passion for songwriting with more vigor. A recent influence comes from her friendship with renowned Canadian singer-songwriter, Katherine Wheatley.  Women's Music Weekends and recording sessions inspired Barb to improve her craft especially with song development. It was here that Barb's musical soul was rekindled and set afire. 

Barb has recently recorded a selection of her songs. Her sincere vocal, links the imagery of her lyrics in a reflective way. For Barb, it is all about enjoying every part of this creative process. She is looking forward to taking this next step to share her songs with like-minded listeners. Enjoy!