Ruth Brown was a prominent American singer-songwriter and actress, who brought a pop music style to rhythm and blues, earning her the nickname 'Queen of R&B.' Her string of hits in the 1950s for Atlantic Records, including '(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean,' helped establish the label as a major force in popular music. Beyond her musical success, she became a fierce advocate for musicians' rights and royalties, which led to the founding of the Rhythm and Blues Foundation. Her career saw a major resurgence culminating in a Tony Award for her performance in 'Black and Blue' and her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.