A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs Episode 13: “Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean” by Ruth Brown
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Dec 31, 2018 Explore the influence of blind Lemon Jefferson on Ruth Brown's hit song, the impact of white collectors on black music, Ruth Brown's journey to becoming a singer, her rise to stardom and success with Atlantic Records, and her campaign for royalties and the foundation's impact.
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Ruth Brown's Early Career Struggles
- Ruth Brown, at 17, ran away to pursue singing, marrying a trumpet player.
- Fired from Lucky Millinder's band for bringing drinks on stage, she was left stranded without pay.
Blanche Calloway's Support
- Blanche Calloway, a successful bandleader and activist, offered Brown a lifeline.
- Calloway, Cab Calloway's sister, ran a club where Brown could sing until she earned enough to return home.
Blanche Calloway's Legacy
- Blanche Calloway led an all-male band, becoming a prominent figure in music and civil rights.
- Two stories explain her band's breakup: mafia pressure or a band member stealing funds after Calloway's arrest for using a whites-only restroom.