The Story Beyond My Mother's Song

The Story Beyond My Mother’s Song is a powerful true story of faith, music, family legacy, betrayal, sacrifice, and unconditional love. Born from the hidden history behind the gospel soul classic He Cares—written by Barbara “Bobbie” Grant and later produced by Sam Cooke for the Soul Stirrers featuring Johnny Taylor—this deeply personal memoir follows the extraordinary life of a gifted woman whose influence stretched far beyond the church walls of Chicago. Barbara Grant-Haynes was more than a songwriter. She was a minister of music. A beauty queen. A mother of four daughters. A woman of unwavering faith who survived heartbreak, loss, violence, and betrayal while continuing to stand firm in God. Told through the eyes of her youngest daughter, singer-songwriter Barbria DeÁnne, this emotional journey spans generations—from Chicago gospel roots and the golden era of soul music to devastating family conflict, spiritual experiences, and the heartbreaking fight to save Barbara’s life.