R.I.P.: Juanita Brooks

The singer Juanita Brooks died September 10th in New Orleans at the age of 55 following back surgery. Brooks joined the cast of Vernel Bagneris' musical "One Mo' Time" in 1982 and later starred in Bagneris' "Staggerlee". She also played the title character in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom", performed with jazz bands in New Orleans and New York and recorded in blues, Rhythm 'n' Blues as well as gospel environments. Obituary: New Orleans Times-Picayune.