Ruth Brown

Early Life

Ruth Alston Brown was born on January 30, 1928, in Portsmouth, Virginia, as the eldest of seven siblings. Growing up in a musical family, her father was a dockhand and directed the local church choir, but Ruth was drawn to the nightlife, performing at USO shows and nightclubs. At the age of 17, she ran away with trumpeter Jimmy Brown to pursue her passion for singing, eventually joining Lucky Millinder's orchestra.

Career

Brown's career took off when she was discovered by Atlantic Records after a recommendation from Willis Conover. Despite a car accident that delayed her audition, she signed with the label from her hospital bed. Her first major hit, "So Long," was released in 1949, followed by the chart-topping "Teardrops from My Eyes" in 1950, which solidified her status as the "Queen of R&B." Throughout the early 1950s, she released a string of hits, including "(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean" and "5-10-15 Hours."

In the 1970s, Brown made a comeback in music and acting, encouraged by comedian Redd Foxx. She starred in the cult classic film "Hairspray" and won a Tony Award for her performance in "Black and Blue." Her advocacy for musicians' rights led to the founding of the Rhythm and Blues Foundation in 1988. Brown was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, marking her legacy as a pioneering figure in rhythm and blues.

Legacy

Ruth Brown's influence on music and culture is profound. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, she not only shaped the sound of R&B but also fought for the rights of artists. Her autobiography, "Miss Rhythm," won the Gleason Award for music journalism, and her contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated today. Brown passed away on November 17, 2006, leaving behind a rich legacy as a singer-songwriter and actress.