Born: 29 August 1924, United States
Died: 14 December 1963
Country most active: United States
Also known as: Ruth Lee Jones
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
Dinah Washington (Ruth Lee Jones) was an eminent American vocalist and pianist and reigned as a prominent black female recording artist in the 1950s. Fueled by jazz roots, her versatile repertoire embraced blues, R&B, and pop, earning her the “Queen of the Blues” title. Honored by the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in 1986, she secured her place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
Her career started at 15, when Dinah won a talent contest, kickstarting her club performances. By 1941–42, she graced Chicago’s clubs and captivated audiences. An encounter with Billie Holiday led her to become Dinah Washington, gaining Hampton’s attention and fame. Collaborations and hits followed, leaving an indelible mark on music history.