If you asked her if she and her sister ever disagree, Barbara would be the first to say, “they lock horns” occasionally. It’s hard to believe, considering the way that they smile and greet all their patrons and audience members like they’re family. Barbara has a way of making people feel like they’re right at home when she gets out into the crowd and mingles.

Barbara is married with a large family of five kids, and her family is her best admirer (just ask her, and she’ll be glad to show you the pictures). How would you like to have a mom so hip? According to Barbara, she and Bette went through their “hippie” stage, and gradually evolved into responsible adults. (Hmmmm, I wonder if she is telling the truth – about the responsible adult thing, I mean?) Barb tells of their pretending to be on stage, as young girls, and singing “I’m A Little Teapot” for relatives, at the age of four. Well, the teapot’s bubbling over and no one’s pretending anymore.

Barbara was on the road together with Bette, performing in the national show group, the “Brothers and Sisters”, appeared in Las Vegas, and competed for dates with Regis Philbin, Bobby Vinton, and Frank Sinatra, Jr. But Barbara got the date with Regis and Bobby Vinton! She also spent several years in the all-female group, Lily, again, with Bette. Lily performed mostly original songs and played major venues throughout Milwaukee.

Her smooth vocal style enriches FPN’s harmonies as well as providing an extra treat for music connoisseurs - just catch her simmering rendition of “Stormy Monday”! You might hear shades of Diane Krall or Marcia Ball. It’s clear that Barbara is professional to the “t”, and she is comfortable with any crowd (the more crowded the better).

Patrons are never quite sure which sister will be appearing, unless both are scheduled at the same time. Only their hairdressers know for sure (well, hopefully, the hubbies do too). In addition to their musical involvement, both run family businesses, and one would never know that underneath their gentle-mannered poise lie the ladies of boogie and woogie.

And yes, Barbara and Bette are individuals – each with her own set of strengths and gifts. Why don’t you see if you can tell the difference – in person. You’ll just have to check out FPN and to meet them!