Barbara George made her mark in music history with one unforgettable song. Her 1961 single “I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More)” soared to the top of the R&B charts and into the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Written by George herself, the song showcased her unique voice and songwriting talent during a time when few women—especially young Black women—wrote their own hits.
Although her career never reached those same heights again, her one major hit became a staple of R&B and pop music, inspiring countless cover versions and earning her a place among early 1960s soul pioneers.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Barbara Ann Smith |
| Stage Name | Barbara George |
| Birth | August 16, 1942 – Smithridge, Louisiana |
| Death | August 10, 2006 – Chauvin, Louisiana |
| Genres | R&B, Soul |
| Main Instrument | Vocals |
| Record Labels | AFO Records, Sue Records |
| Breakthrough Song | “I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More)” – 1961 |
| Chart Achievement | #1 R&B, #3 Hot 100 (Billboard) |
| Known For | Self-written hit, pioneering female R&B voice |
Early Life and Influences
Barbara Ann Smith, known professionally as Barbara George, was born on August 16, 1942, in Smithridge, Louisiana, a small rural community in Terrebonne Parish. She grew up in New Orleans, where she began singing in the choir at her local Baptist church. Music became a central part of her life, and she began writing songs at an early age—both religious and secular.
By the time she was 16 years old, she had married and started a family, yet she continued to pursue music.
Discovery and First Record
Her big break came when New Orleans singer and pianist Jessie Hill (known for the hit “Ooh Poo Pah Doo”) discovered her talent. Hill introduced her to Harold Battiste, a prominent music arranger, saxophonist, and record producer who had launched his own Black-owned record label called AFO Records (All For One).
In 1961, George signed to AFO Records and recorded her self-written debut single “I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More).”
Recording and Chart Success
The song featured a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, delivered in George’s smooth, confident voice. With strong local radio support, the single caught on nationally.
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#1 on Billboard R&B chart
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#3 on Billboard Hot 100
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Sold over 1 million copies
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Earned a gold disc award from the RIAA
The success of “I Know” made Barbara George a rare figure at the time—a female teenager who had written, performed, and scored a national hit.
Cultural Impact of “I Know”
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The song’s impact extended beyond charts. “I Know” became a favorite in the UK and was covered by British Invasion artists such as:
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The Merseybeats
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Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas
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Beryl Marsden
In the U.S., the track was later recorded by:
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Cher
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Ike & Tina Turner
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Bonnie Raitt
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Fats Domino
In 1988, Marisela recorded a version for the soundtrack of the film Salsa, helping introduce the tune to a new generation.
Struggles After Her Hit
Following the success of her debut, George released more music. In 1962, she put out her second single “You Talk About Love,” also on AFO. While it showed promise, it failed to match the success of “I Know.”
Later that year, George switched to Sue Records, a more established label, with support from Battiste. She released two more singles:
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“You Talk About Love” (reissued on Sue)
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“Send For Me (If You Need Some Lovin’)”
However, the momentum had faded. By 1964, George had left Sue Records and her mainstream recording career stalled.
Attempted Comeback and Personal Challenges
In 1967, she attempted a comeback, recording new material, but public interest was low. By the 1970s, George’s personal life became more difficult. She reportedly battled drug and alcohol addiction, which affected both her health and her music career.
Still, George never gave up on music. In the early 1980s, she joined the nostalgia and oldies performance circuit, where she performed her hit song for longtime fans. Though the spotlight was gone, her legacy lived on through that one enduring track.
Later Life and Death
In the mid-1990s, Barbara George began writing her autobiography, aiming to tell the story of her life and career. However, around the same time, she was diagnosed with liver cancer. Sadly, she never completed the book.
George died on August 10, 2006, in Chauvin, Louisiana, just six days before her 64th birthday.
Legacy
Barbara George remains a symbol of early 60s soul success—especially for young women and Black songwriters. Her story is one of early triumph, followed by struggle, but also of resilience. “I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More)” continues to appear on oldies playlists and compilation albums, reminding listeners of her undeniable talent.
Her ability to write and perform her own music set her apart in an era dominated by male songwriters and producers. Though her career was brief, it was impactful.
Discography Highlights
Singles:
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“I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More)” – AFO (1961)
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“You Talk About Love” – AFO/Sue (1962)
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“Send For Me (If You Need Some Lovin’)” – Sue (1962)
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Various comeback singles – 1967 and early 1980s (limited releases)
Notable Covers:
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Ike & Tina Turner
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Cher
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Bonnie Raitt
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Marisela (Salsa soundtrack, 1988)
Final Thoughts
Barbara George’s career was short, but her impact was lasting. Her 1961 hit still resonates today and has been performed across generations and genres. As one of the few young women in her time to write and perform her own chart-topping R&B song, George helped open the door for future female artists and songwriters.
While her life had its share of struggles, her voice and story remain an important part of American music history. “I Know” may have been her only major hit, but it was more than enough to ensure that Barbara George would not be forgotten.