Ruth Brown Passes

1928-2006

RUTH BROWN died FRIDAY (11/17) in LAS VEGAS at the age of 78. BROWN scored hits like "Teardrops From My Eyes" and "Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean." She was so popular that her label, ATLANTIC RECORDS, became known as the "House That RUTH Built."

But a decade later, her star eclipsed by rock 'n' roll, she left music and took jobs clerking in stores and cleaning houses to support her two young sons. She came back in the late '80s and '90s, rebuilding her own career while becoming a champion for rhythm-and-blues pioneers. Alongside younger artists like BONNIE RAITT, she lobbied tirelessly to have their legacy honored and their money paid.

She hosted a weekly music series called RUTH'S PLACE at the LONE STAR CAFE and the syndicated "HOUSE OF BLUES" radio show.

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