Etta James’ mother, was only 14 when she had Etta. Her father has never been identified. Her mother was frequently absent which resulted in Etta’’s living with a series of foster parents, including “Sarge” & “Mama” Lu. During her childhood, she began regularly attending a Baptist church where she received her first professional vocal training at the age of 5 from James Earle Hines, musical director of the church. She became a soloist in the choir despite her young age & performed with them on lo