Barbara Hendricks

Barbara Hendricks (born November 20, 1948) is an American lyric soprano and humanitarian. Born in Arkansas, Hendricks studied chemistry and mathematics at the University of Nebraska before becoming a singer. She gained acclaim for her operatic roles from her 1974 debut onwards, and also performs jazz among other genres. Hendricks has been a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador since 1987. She has lived in Europe since 1977, and in Switzerland since 1985. She is a citizen of Switzerland and of Sweden following her marriage to a Swedish citizen.