Fontella Bass was born on July 3, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Fontella Bass was born on July 3, 1940, in the vibrant music hub of St. Louis, Missouri. From a young age, she was surrounded by a family deeply rooted in gospel music. Her mother, Martha Bass, was a prominent member of the Famous Ward Singers, providing her with a rich musical background. This environment fostered her passion for music, influencing her path towards becoming a celebrated soul singer.