Ottilie Patterson joined Chris Barber's Jazz Band on 1 January 1955. She made her first major appearance at what is now a legendary Royal Festival Hall concert on 9 January 1955, where she stunned critics and the public alike with the power of her voice, and in particular her unique ability to sing the blues. Ottilie was forced to retire due to ill health in the early 1970s, although she did appear and record with the band from time to time after that. The Barber Band catalogue includes literally hundreds of songs by Ottilie, ranging from novelty items and pop songs to Irish ballads and jazz standards -- but above all, the blues.