Ruth Brown, also known as the “Queen of R&B,” was an American singer and actress born on January 12, 1928, in Portsmouth, Virginia. She began her music career in the 1940s, singing with various bands and performing in clubs. In 1949, she signed a record deal with Atlantic Records and quickly became one of the label’s biggest stars. Her powerful voice and emotional delivery earned her numerous hits, including “Teardrops from My Eyes” and “Mama, He Treats Your Daughter Mean.”
Brown’s music combined elements of blues, jazz, and gospel, and her influence can be heard in the work of later R&B and soul artists. In addition to her music career, Brown also acted in films and on Broadway, winning a Tony Award in 1989 for her performance in “Black and Blue.” She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
Brown’s legacy in music and entertainment remains secure today. She paved the way for future generations of female artists and contributed to the evolution of R&B and soul music. Her powerful and emotive voice continues to inspire and captivate listeners, and her impact on American music and culture is immeasurable.
1. Teardrops from My Eyes
“Teardrops from My Eyes” by Ruth Brown is a classic rhythm and blues song that captures the pain and heartache of a failed relationship. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo contrast with the lyrics, which describe the singer’s emotional turmoil and tears. Brown’s soulful vocals and dynamic range bring a sense of raw emotion and depth to the song, conveying the intense feelings of heartbreak and longing. “Teardrops from My Eyes” is a timeless classic that remains a powerful representation of the enduring power of rhythm and blues to capture the highs and lows of the human experience.
2. If I Can’t Sell It, I’ll Keep Sittin’ on It
“If I Can’t Sell It, I’ll Keep Sittin’ on It” is a playful and upbeat song by American singer Ruth Brown, released in 1953. The song features Brown’s powerful and expressive vocals, with a catchy melody and lively horns. The lyrics convey a sense of humor and defiance, as the singer proclaims that she won’t give up on her goods until she gets a fair price. The song’s playful spirit and Brown’s charismatic delivery make it a fan favorite and a classic of the R&B genre. “If I Can’t Sell It, I’ll Keep Sittin’ on It” showcases Brown’s talent as a singer and her ability to create music that is both entertaining and empowering.
3. This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin’
“This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin'” by Ruth Brown is an energetic and infectious song that helped to pioneer the rock and roll genre. The track features a swinging rhythm section and Brown’s soulful vocals, which alternate between powerful belting and playful ad-libs. The lyrics celebrate the joys of rock and roll, as Brown sings about a young girl who has discovered the power of music and is now living life to the fullest. “This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin'” was a breakthrough hit for Brown, and remains a beloved classic of early rock and roll, with its infectious energy and undeniable charm.
4. (Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean
“(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean” by Ruth Brown is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of early rhythm and blues. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo belie the lyrics, which describe the mistreatment of a woman by her lover. Brown’s soulful vocals bring a sense of emotional depth and urgency to the song, conveying the pain and frustration of a woman who is mistreated and undervalued. The song is a powerful anthem for women’s empowerment and a testament to the enduring influence of rhythm and blues in shaping popular music.
5. 5-10-15 Hours
“5-10-15 Hours” is a classic R&B song by American singer Ruth Brown, released in 1952. The song features Brown’s powerful and emotive vocals, with a soulful melody and a driving rhythm. The lyrics express the singer’s devotion to her lover and her willingness to wait for him, no matter how long it takes. The song’s upbeat tempo and Brown’s passionate delivery make it a fan favorite and a classic of the era. “5-10-15 Hours” showcases Brown’s talent as a singer and her ability to convey deep emotions through her music, making it a timeless and beloved classic in the R&B genre.
6. Things About Comin’ My Way
“Things About Comin’ My Way” by Ruth Brown is a soulful and bluesy track that showcases her powerful and emotive vocals. The song features a slow and sultry groove, with Brown’s voice conveying a sense of world-weary wisdom as she sings about the ups and downs of life and love. The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, with Brown reflecting on the challenges she has faced and the lessons she has learned along the way. “Things About Comin’ My Way” is a standout track from Brown’s later career, and a testament to her enduring talent and ability to convey deep emotion through her music.
7. Yesterday
“Yesterday” by Ruth Brown is a soulful ballad that expresses the pain and heartache of lost love. Brown’s rich and emotive vocals bring a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability to the song, capturing the deep sadness of a woman who is struggling to come to terms with a failed relationship. The song’s gentle melodies and poignant lyrics create a sense of intimacy and tenderness, evoking the bittersweet memories of a love that has slipped away. “Yesterday” is a timeless classic that remains a testament to the enduring power of soul music to capture the joys and sorrows of the human experience.
8. Lucky Lips
“Lucky Lips” is a classic R&B song by American singer Ruth Brown, released in 1957. The song features Brown’s powerful and dynamic vocals, with an upbeat and infectious melody. The lyrics express the singer’s confidence and charm, as she boasts of her “lucky lips” that can bring good fortune to those she kisses. The song’s catchy chorus and Brown’s energetic delivery make it a fan favorite and a classic of the era. “Lucky Lips” showcases Brown’s talent as a singer and her ability to create music that is both fun and empowering, making it a timeless and beloved classic in the R&B genre.
9. I Don’t Know
“I Don’t Know” by Ruth Brown is a classic rhythm and blues track that showcases her powerful and soulful vocals. The song features a driving beat and lively horns, with Brown’s voice soaring over the instrumentation with effortless grace. The lyrics are a plea for understanding and compassion, with Brown expressing her confusion and frustration about the ups and downs of love. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of early rhythm and blues, while Brown’s dynamic performance cements her legacy as one of the genre’s most talented and influential vocalists.
10. Oh What a Dream
“Oh What a Dream” by Ruth Brown is an upbeat and joyful rhythm and blues song that captures the exuberance and excitement of young love. The song’s catchy melody and swinging rhythm evoke the optimism and hopefulness of a woman who has found love and is reveling in the possibilities of the future. Brown’s soulful and dynamic vocals bring a sense of energy and vitality to the song, conveying the sheer joy and ecstasy of falling in love. “Oh What a Dream” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners with its message of hope and optimism.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
