Sandra Barber was born on June 8th, 1955 in New York. She attended high school in Englewood, New Jersey. She is one of 3 brothers and five sisters.
At the age of nine, Sandy was singing for just about anyone who would listen to her. With the encouragement of her family, she sang at all school socials, etc.
Throughout her teen years Sandy knew that she wanted to be a singing star and one of her most cherished moments was an appearance on “Talent Night” at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem where she won second place. It was, as she puts it, the biggest thrill of her life.
A Mr Chris Curry was among those who heard Sandra sing at the Apollo and he arranged an audition for her with the topline producer David Jordon. He produced a hit recording “Let Me Down Easy” with Sandra singing lead with the group “Rare Pleasure”. Along with the hit came many local engagements such as at Stage Theatre, Mr Wes, Mohogany, etc in New Jersey and many clubs in New York. However, as Sandy puts it, she was “just not happy singing with a group”.
Through a mutual friend, Sandra was introduced to Clyde Otis, the writer, producer and music publisher who signed her on the spot and released her first solo album.