Her interested in jazz came from listening to Shelly Manne, Shorty Rogers and, most importantly, Bud Powell.

[9] Hope-Booker attended Los Angeles City College where she befriended Eric Dolphy.

[7] Hope-Booker was encouraged to play by musicians such as Les McCann, Teddy Edwards and Vi Redd.

[9] Hope-Booker started playing professionally in Johnny Otis's band as well as local trios.

[7] After Elmo's death in 1967, Hope-Booker gave up her music career despite being offered a place in Art Blakey's band.