Biography

Inductee: Charles Brown (piano, vocals; born 9/13/22, died 1/21/99) Charles Brown was a major musical figure in the pre-rock and roll era of the late Forties and early Fifties. As a member of Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers and also as the leader of his own trio and a solo artist, the West Coast-based singer/pianist recorded a string of R&B hits in his self-described “blue ballad” style. These included three of the most popular R&B singles of the era: “Driftin’ Blues,” “Trouble Blues” and “Black Night.” Often cited as an influence upon Ray Charles, Brown performed in an intimate, mellow style ...