Ruth Jean Baskerville Bowen facts for kids

Ruth Jean Baskerville Bowen (1924–2009) was a groundbreaking businesswoman. She was the first Black woman to become a talent agent. She also led Queen Booking Corporation. This company was the largest entertainment agency owned by a Black person in the world. It helped many famous African-American artists.

Early Life and School Days

Ruth Jean Baskerville was born on September 13, 1924. Her hometown was Danville, Virginia. Her mother was African-American and French. Her father was Irish. Ruth grew up with three older half-sisters and her brother, James.

She went to elementary and high school in Danville. Later, her family moved to Brooklyn, New York. There, she attended Girls' High School. Ruth then studied at New York University for two years.

Starting Her Career in Entertainment

Ruth Bowen got married in 1944. Her husband, Billy Bowen, was a singer. He was part of a famous group called The Ink Spots. Ruth helped manage his business. This gave her a lot of experience in the music world.

Ruth's career really took off after meeting singer Dinah Washington. Ruth became Dinah's personal publicist and manager. A publicist helps promote an artist. A manager helps guide their career. Working with Dinah taught Ruth a lot. She learned about booking artists for shows.

Building Queen Booking Corporation

Ruth Bowen got her special license to book artists. She worked with David Dinkins, who later became mayor of New York City. In 1959, Ruth and Dinah Washington started their own agency. They called it Queen Artists.

After Dinah Washington passed away in 1964, Ruth changed the company's name. It became the Queen Booking Corporation. This agency worked with all kinds of performers. They represented singers, bands, gospel choirs, and comedians.

Ruth Bowen helped many legendary artists. Some of these stars include:

• Aretha Franklin
• The Drifters
• Patti LaBelle and Bluebells
• Gladys Knight & The Pips
• The Isley Brothers
• Kool & the Gang
• The O'Jays
• Teddy Pendergrass
• Smokey Robinson
• Marvin Gaye
• Tina Turner
• The Four Tops
• Al Green
• The Stylistics

Ruth Bowen's Family Life

Ruth Bowen married William "Billy" Bowen in 1944. He was one of the original members of The Ink Spots. They were married for many years until he passed away in 1982.

Later, she married Clarence "Billy" Bryant. Ruth Bowen passed away on April 21, 2009. She was 84 years old. She died in New York City after a battle with brain cancer. She was survived by her husband, her brother, and her sister-in-law.