Another legend of rhythm and blues, Ruth Brown, passed away yesterday. I remember seeing a Saturday matinee of Black and Blue on Broadway some years ago. Ruth Brown, in a Tony award-winning performance, starred side-by-side with Linda Hopkins and Carrie Smith to deliver the lead singing roles. Tap dancing legends like Jimmy Slyde and Bunny Briggs danced to the music of Duke Ellington and Fats Waller, (Savion Glover's understudy danced his role that day), and a number of well-known jazz musicians played in the orchestra.
Black and Blue celebrated the period between WWI and WWII when Paris opened its arms and heart to black dance and music.
Ruth Brown often appeared in San Francisco, though I never saw her perform again, I do remember the fabulous Black and Blue . Ruth Brown, independent spirit and crusader for musician rights.
Photo Credit: Jack Vartoogian/FrontRow Photos
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