A Pioneer of Early 20th Century Music
Lillyn Brown was a trailblazing figure in the early 20th-century music scene, leaving behind a remarkable legacy despite having only four three-minute songs as recorded output. Her career, which spanned six decades, began in the late 19th century and saw her navigate through various genres and performance styles, making a lasting impact on the music industry. Born in 1885 in Atlanta, Georgia, Lillyn Brown was the daughter of an Afro-American mother and an Erie Iroquois father. Her diverse heritage would later influence her unique musical style and performance persona. Brown’s early foray into the world of entertainment began at a young age when she joined an all-white female string band as “The Indian Princess” in 1894. This early experience set the stage for her future career as a performer.
Lillyn Brown’s career took a significant turn in 1908 when she claimed to be the first professional vocalist to sing the blues in front of a live audience. This historic moment reportedly occurred on the stage of the Little Strand Theatre in Chicago, marking a pivotal point in the evolution of blues music and live performance. Brown’s bold and pioneering approach to music set her apart as a trailblazer in the industry. In 1921, Lillyn Brown made her only known gramophone recordings, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Backed by a talented ensemble including cornetist Ed Cox, trombonists Bud Aiken and Herb Flemming, reedman Garvin Bushell, violinist Johnny Mullins, drummer Lutice Perkins, and an unidentified piano player, Brown’s recordings showcased her dynamic vocal abilities and her ability to infuse blues with vaudeville-style flair. These recordings were released under various pseudonyms, adding to the mystique of Brown’s musical contributions.
Brown’s talents extended beyond the recording studio, as she made a significant impact on the Broadway stage. In 1918, she stepped into the spotlight when she replaced New Orleans vaudevillian Esther Bigeou in the Broadway Rastus show, captivating audiences with her lively and boisterous performances. Her versatility as a performer allowed her to leave an indelible mark on the theatrical landscape during this era.
While Brown retired from full-time performing in the mid-1930s, she continued to make meaningful contributions to the world of entertainment. In 1949, she made a triumphant return to the stage and even appeared in a 1952 production of “Kiss Me Kate.” Additionally, Brown ran her school for aspiring vocalists and actors, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with the next generation of performers. During the final years of her life, she dedicated herself to writing, producing, and directing plays for the Abyssinian Baptist Church, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond her performances. Lillyn Brown’s final public performance took place in 1964 at a tribute concert for her contemporary Mamie Smith, bringing her remarkable career full circle. After a lifetime of groundbreaking achievements in show business, Lillyn Brown passed away in 1969, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.
Lillyn Brown’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. As a pioneering vocalist and performer, she broke down barriers and blazed a trail for future generations of artists. Her contributions to early 20th-century music continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying her status as a true icon of her time. Through her recordings, live performances, and mentorship of aspiring talent, Lillyn Brown’s influence will forever endure as a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of music.