Ruth Brown, 1928-2006
Sad news indeed for fans of early rock and its origins: "Miss Rhythm" herself, the pioneering R&B vocalist Ruth Brown, passed away Friday in Las Vegas at the age of 78. Brown, a major inspiration to Little Richard and Aretha Franklin, and also the original "Motormouth Maybelle" in the John Waters film Hairspray, had been on life support systems since October 29th of this year due to a stroke.Although she's familiar to oldies fans for hits like "Lucky Lips," "This Little Girl's Gone Rockin'," and "(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean," Brown's infuence goes far beyond a few radio staples -- she was, in fact, the best-selling black female artist of the Fifties, so profitable that the Atlantic label has often been referred to as "the house that Ruth built."
The gospel-trained singer later fought her way back from public indifference in the Seventies and became a Tony-winning fixture on Broadway, as well as an important figure in the Rhythm and Blues Foundation's fight for R&B artists' back royalties. In a statement, Bonnie Raitt asserted that "Ruth was one of the most important and beloved figures in modern music. You can hear her influence in everyone from Little Richard to Etta (James), Aretha (Franklin), Janis (Joplin) and divas like Christina Aguilera today," adding, "She was my dear friend, and I will miss her terribly." Brown, who is survived by two sons, three brothers, and one sister, will be buried in her hometown of Portsmouth, VA; the Foundation is planning a public memorial. Look for a detailed profile on Ruth and her music to come.
Comments
The ” First Lady of Rhythm and Blues”, “Orginial Queen of Rhythm and Blues”, and ” Miss Rhythm”,
RUTH BROWN has worn many titles concerning her contributions to Rhythm and Blues. “The First Lady of Rhythm and Blues”, The Orginial Queen of Rhythm and Blues”, and ” Miss Rhythm”. Miss Brown loved her fans and to performed for them. It was showed in her energy when she performed. No one can chew up songs or express words in a love ballard as Miss Brown could with such forceful meanings. When she song upbeat songs, there was no question she was the boss or “Miss Rhythm”. It’s sad to think that she do not have a STAR on Hollywood Walk of FAME. Many of us in the know, knows that RUTH BROWN should have a STAR years ago. Let’s see to it that she gets this STAR very soon.
Miss Rhythm, we will miss you performing live, but thank you for the recordings that you left with us.You will always be the GREATEST FEMALE RHYTHM and BLUES SINGER that ever LIVED!!!
Dear Ruth, You will be missed by all who have heard your voice and have loved you all these years. Believe me, you will never be forgotten.