Wynona Carr

Wynona Carr was a powerful and dynamic gospel and rhythm & blues singer whose career bridged the sacred and the secular during the 1950s. Starting out as a gospel performer under the name Sister Wynona Carr, she signed with Specialty Records and brought a bold, bluesy energy to her recordings that set her apart in the gospel world. She later transitioned to R&B, cultivating a more mainstream sound while keeping her trademark soulful delivery. Carr's expressive voice and innovative songwriting made her a unique presence in both genres, though she often didn't get the recognition she deserved during her lifetime.

Her R&B recordings include catchy, clever tracks like "What Do You Know About Love?" and "Jump Jack Jump!"—songs that showcased her flair for storytelling and genre-blending. Her album Wild, Wonderful Wynona stands as a great summary of her style: full of charisma, grit, and heart. Although she faced challenges in her career and personal life, Wynona Carr’s contributions have gained more appreciation over time, with music historians and fans recognizing her as a pioneer who helped pave the way for future generations of genre-crossing artists.