Anita Baker (born January 26, 1958, in Toledo, Ohio) is an African American soul and adult contemporary Rhythm and blues singer. She was raised in Detroit, Michigan. She started singing in church and later in groups throughout Detroit, before landing a gig with Chapter 8, with whom she had the hit "I Just Wanna Be Your Girl" in the early 80s. Baker later went solo, and in 1983 she released her first album, The Songstress.
Baker won Grammy Awards in 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, and 1996. Her music has been referred to in the soul subcategories of Quiet Storm and Urban contemporary and she has also forayed into gospel music and R&B. Baker is perhaps best known for her Billboard #1 hit "Sweet Love". She appeared as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live twice in 1987 and 1988. She has recorded duets with Frank Sinatra, Joel Davis, and others.
Anita Baker is married to Walter Bridgforth and has two sons. She is a prominent member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
