Ottilie Patterson

Ottilie Patterson, born in Comber, County Down, was a powerhouse of British blues, jazz, and R&B, captivating audiences from the 1950s to the 1960s. Known as the "godmother of British blues," her soulful voice and commanding stage presence made her a standout artist of her era. Patterson began her musical journey with piano lessons at age nine and later found her calling in blues and jazz while in college. She rose to international stardom as the lead singer of the Chris Barber Band, becoming one of the most prolific and beloved blues artists from Northern Ireland. Her life story, marked by triumph and tragedy, has been celebrated in documentaries and plays, showcasing her enduring legacy in the world of music.