Anna Marie Wooldridge, better known by her stage name Abbey Lincoln, was a popular American jazz singer and songwriter. Famous for her avant-garde music, she wrote and performed her own compositions. Born in an era when the American society was marred by widespread racism and sexism, she struggled hard as a black woman to build a successful musical career for herself. An independent spirit, she not only successfully carved a niche for herself in the musical industry but also inspired generations of black women to stand up for themselves and fight for their rights. Well established in the show business as a talented and glamorous figure by the 1960s, she put her fame to good use by becoming active in the civil rights movement as well. Her lyrics often reflected the ideals of the civil rights movement and helped in generating passion for the cause in the minds of her listeners. In addition to her musical career, she ventured into acting as well and appeared in movies such as ‘The Girl Can’t Help It’ and ‘Gentleman Prefer Blondes.’ She explored more philosophical themes during the later years of her songwriting career and remained professionally active until well into her seventies.