Ruth Brown was an American singer and actress, who was born on January 30, 1928, in Portsmouth, Virginia, and passed away on November 17, 2006. She was often referred to as “Miss Rhythm” due to her distinctive voice and her ability to blend blues, jazz, and R&B into her music.
Brown first gained prominence in the 1950s with her hit songs “So Long” and “Teardrops from My Eyes,” which helped her become one of the most successful female rhythm and blues singers of that era. In addition to her success as a singer, she also appeared in several films, including “The Seven Year Itch” and “Hairspray,” and was nominated for a Tony Award for her role in the Broadway musical “Black and Blue.”
Despite her success, Brown’s career was not without its challenges. Like many African American artists of her time, she faced racism and discrimination in the music industry, which often limited her opportunities and earnings. However, she continued to use her platform to advocate for the rights of Black musicians and performers and helped pave the way for future generations of artists.
In recognition of her contributions to music and entertainment, Brown was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world, and her music remains a beloved part of the American musical canon.
1. 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 humorous and sassy blues song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1953. The lyrics describe a woman who has a product to sell but can’t find a buyer who is willing to pay the right price. She declares that if she can’t sell it for what it’s worth, she’ll simply keep it and enjoy it for herself. The song features Brown’s signature powerhouse vocals, backed by a lively horn section and upbeat piano. It has since been covered by several other artists, cementing its place as a classic blues tune.
2. (Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean
“(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean” is a classic rhythm and blues track that was popularized by Ruth Brown in the 1950s. The song is a warning to mothers about the mistreatment of their daughters by their partners, and it delivers a strong message of female empowerment. With a catchy piano riff, groovy bassline, and powerful vocals, the song has become a timeless classic and a favorite among fans of early R&B. Brown’s dynamic delivery and emotive storytelling make “He Treats Your Daughter Mean” a powerful and enduring statement on the importance of respecting women and valuing their agency in relationships.
3. Teardrops from My Eyes
“Teardrops from My Eyes” is a seminal rhythm and blues track that was recorded by the legendary vocalist Ruth Brown in 1950. The song’s lively piano intro and upbeat tempo belie the lyrics’ sad subject matter. Brown’s powerful and emotive vocals tell the story of heartbreak and loss, as she laments the tears she can’t help but shed over a failed romance. The song’s catchy melody and Brown’s dynamic delivery have made it an enduring classic, with countless covers and references in popular culture over the years. “Teardrops from My Eyes” is a poignant and memorable entry in the canon of early R&B music.
4. This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin’
“This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin'” is an upbeat and energetic rock and roll song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1958. The song tells the story of a young girl who has discovered the joys of rock and roll and has left behind her old ways to embrace this new music. The lyrics are accompanied by a driving beat, a catchy guitar riff, and Brown’s powerful vocals. The song was a hit at the time of its release and has since become a beloved classic of the rock and roll era. Its catchy melody and infectious rhythm make it a favorite among fans of the genre.
5. Lucky Lips
“Lucky Lips” is an infectious and lively rhythm and blues track recorded by the legendary singer Ruth Brown in 1957. The song’s catchy melody, punctuated by an upbeat horn section and Brown’s dynamic vocals, make it a toe-tapping favorite among fans of early R&B. The lyrics, which describe the singer’s belief in the power of a lucky kiss to bring success in love, are delivered with a sense of playful charm and optimism. “Lucky Lips” is a prime example of Ruth Brown’s signature style, which combined a strong sense of musicality with a warm and engaging persona, making her one of the defining voices of early R&B.
6. I Don’t Know
“I Don’t Know” is a classic rhythm and blues song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1952. The song features Brown’s soulful vocals and a lively horn section, creating a powerful and emotive sound. The lyrics describe a woman who is at a loss for words when it comes to expressing her love for her partner. She declares that she doesn’t know how to show her love, but that her feelings are genuine and deep. The song’s simple yet heartfelt message has resonated with audiences for decades, cementing its place as a timeless classic of the R&B genre.
7. Oh What a Dream
“Oh What a Dream” is a romantic and dreamy doo-wop song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1954. The song tells the story of a woman who is swept off her feet by a charming man, and she fantasizes about their future together. The lyrics are accompanied by a lush arrangement of strings and a sweet harmonizing chorus, creating a soft and romantic sound. The song’s dreamy lyrics and gentle melody evoke a sense of longing and wistfulness, making it a beloved classic of the doo-wop genre.
8. 5-10-15 Hours
“5-10-15 Hours” is a playful and upbeat R&B song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1952. The song’s title refers to the amount of time the singer is willing to wait for her lover to return to her, emphasizing her devotion and patience. The lyrics are accompanied by a lively horn section and a catchy piano riff, creating a danceable and energetic sound. The song’s playful lyrics and catchy melody make it a beloved classic of the R&B genre, and it has since been covered by several other artists.
9. Yesterday
“Yesterday” is a timeless ballad written and performed by Paul McCartney of The Beatles. The song features McCartney’s emotive vocals accompanied by a simple, yet elegant arrangement of acoustic guitar and string quartet. The lyrics express the pain and regret of a failed relationship, with McCartney mourning the loss of a love that once seemed so perfect. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it an enduring classic and a staple of popular music. “Yesterday” remains one of the most covered songs in music history and a testament to McCartney’s enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.
10. Things About Comin’ My Way
“Things About Comin’ My Way” is a soulful and melancholic blues song, originally recorded by Ruth Brown in 1958. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is anticipating the arrival of bad news, but is determined to face it with strength and resilience. The lyrics are accompanied by a haunting piano and Brown’s emotive vocals, creating a sense of sadness and contemplation. The song’s emotional depth and Brown’s powerful delivery make it a standout among her catalog, and it has since been covered by several other artists, cementing its place as a classic blues tune.
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.
