Paul Barbarin, born Adolphe Paul Barbarin on May 5, 1899, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was an influential American jazz drummer and composer. He hailed from a family deeply rooted in the musical traditions of New Orleans; his father, Isidore Barbarin, was a bandleader, and his brothers, including Louis Barbarin, were also musicians. His nephew, Danny Barker, was a notable jazz musician as well.

Barbarin began his musical career in New Orleans, playing with bands such as Buddy Petit's Young Olympians. In 1917, he moved to Chicago, where he worked by day in the stockyards and played music by night. By the early 1920s, he was touring with prominent musicians like Freddie Keppard and Jimmie Noone.

In the mid-1920s, Barbarin joined King Oliver's band and later moved to New York City to play with Luis Russell's orchestra. He had a significant stint with Russell's band, which later supported Louis Armstrong. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Barbarin played with various bands, including those led by Red Allen and Sidney Bechet.

In 1955, Barbarin founded the Onward Brass Band in New Orleans, a group he led until his death. He was known for his dedication to the New Orleans jazz scene, frequently returning to his hometown throughout his career. Barbarin passed away on February 17, 1969, while playing snare drums during a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. His funeral was noted for drawing a large crowd, underscoring his impact on the jazz community. Barbarin was a devout Catholic and remained closely tied to his New Orleans roots throughout his life.