Ruby

Ruby
ANONYMOUS MOVING IMAGES FAIR USE

Ruby "Red" Valentine (1922-1948)

Ruby Valentine, a voice that promised to define a generation of jazz, remains a tragic footnote in the history of American music. Her life and burgeoning career were cut short in the devastating fire that engulfed the Apex Records warehouse in Chicago on the night of October 27, 1948. While her recorded legacy is tragically small, the stories of those who heard her sing live paint a picture of a truly exceptional talent.

Early Life:

Life in 1922 Mississippi for a young black baby was marked by extreme racial segregation and limited opportunities. Jim Crow laws were in full effect, enforcing strict racial separation in all aspects of society. Black children were denied access to quality education and healthcare, and their families were often relegated to poverty and limited economic prospects. The constant threat of racial violence and discrimination cast a long shadow over their lives, shaping their experiences and limiting their potential.  

Born Ruby Mae Valentine in rural Mississippi in 1922, her early life was steeped in the sounds of the Delta blues and gospel music of the local church. Her family migrated to Chicago during the Great Migration when she was a young girl, seeking better opportunities in the North. It was in the vibrant music scene of Chicago's South Side that Ruby discovered her passion for jazz. She began singing in local clubs while still in her teens, quickly gaining attention for her rich, simmering voice and her captivating stage presence.

Personal Life:

Ruby was known to be fiercely independent and dedicated to her music. While details are scarce, it is known that she was close to her family, often sending money home to Mississippi. She was a regular at several jazz clubs in Bronzeville, where she formed friendships with other musicians. There were rumors of a brief romance with a trumpet player in a rival band, but Ruby remained intensely private about her personal affairs. She was known among her peers for her quick wit, infectious laugh, and unwavering belief in her own talent.

Discography (Unreleased at the time of her death):

Ruby Valentine signed with Apex Records in the spring of 1948. The following tracks were recorded but were tragically lost in the warehouse fire before they could be officially released:

"Midnight Lament" – A slow, bluesy ballad showcasing Ruby's powerful vocal range.
"Starlight Serenade" – A more upbeat number with a swing feel, highlighting her playful side.
"Blues for a Lost Love" – A haunting and emotional track rumored to be inspired by a personal heartbreak.
"Chicago After Dark" - A jump blues track featuring a prominent saxophone solo.

It is believed that test pressings of these recordings existed, though none have ever been recovered.

Tributes and Legacy:

While Ruby Valentine never achieved widespread fame during her lifetime, her name has lived on in the memories of those who knew her and through the stories passed down through Chicago's jazz community.

Annual Memorial Concert: For several years after the fire, local musicians organized a memorial concert in her honor, performing her favorite songs and sharing stories about her life and talent. These concerts eventually faded, but the spirit of remembering Ruby remained.

Oral Histories: In recent years, renewed interest in Ruby Valentine has emerged through research into the history of Chicago jazz. Interviews with elderly musicians and residents of Bronzeville have unearthed valuable anecdotes and fragments of her story.

Fictional Portrayals: Ruby's story has inspired fictional works, with authors and playwrights using her as a muse for characters in their stories set in the 1940s jazz era.

Ruby Valentine's legacy is one of immense potential tragically cut short. She represents the countless unsung heroes of music history, whose talents and contributions were lost to time. Though she never had the chance to fully share her gift with the world, the echoes of her voice continue to resonate, reminding us of the power and fragility of artistic expression.

RUBY

RUBY MAE VALENTINE, a sultry singer with eyes like smoky quartz, sits opposite SAX MARTIN, a wiry aspiring record exec with a permanent cigarette dangling from his lips.

RUBY
(Smiling)
So, Sax, what's the plan for 1949?

SAX
(Grinning, exhaling a plume of smoke)
Big year, Ruby. Big year. We're gonna break you out. Nationwide.

RUBY
(Intrigued)
Nationwide? You think we can do it?

SAX
(Nodding emphatically)
Absolutely. We're gonna get you on those radio shows.

RUBY
(Eyes sparkling)
"Your Hit Parade"? "The Chesterfield Supper Club"?

SAX
(Chuckles)
Bigger than that, Red. We're talking coast-to-coast.

RUBY
(Leaning forward, her voice hushed)
What about a movie deal?

SAX
(Wry smile)
Now you're talking. Hollywood's calling baby. They're hungry for jazz.

RUBY
(Eyes wide with excitement)
Imagine, the silver screen…

SAX
(Interrupting, his voice serious)
But first, the music. We need a killer album. Something to blow 'em away.

RUBY
(Confidently)
Don't you worry, Sax. I'll deliver.

SAX
(Extending a hand)
I know you will. Let's make 1949 the year of Ruby Valentine.

RUBY
(Shaking his hand, her voice low and husky)
Let's make some history.

The room was thrown into darkness by a sudden, deafening explosion. Ruby and Sax were thrown from their seats, Ruby landing hard on the floor, a searing pain shooting through her arm. Dust filled the air, choking her.

"Sax!" she coughed, scrambling to her feet.

She could barely see through the smoke, the air thick with the acrid smell of burning wood and something metallic. Panic clawed at her throat. "Sax, where are you?"

A groan answered her. Ruby stumbled towards the sound, her hand outstretched. "Sax? Can you hear me?"

She found him lying on the floor, his face pale and contorted in pain. "Sax!" she cried, kneeling beside him. "Are you hurt?"

He coughed, a wet, rattling sound. "Fire… everywhere…" he gasped, his voice weak.

Terror gripped Ruby. They were trapped. The warehouse was ablaze.

"We have to get out of here!" she yelled, trying to pull him up.

Sax shook his head, wincing in pain. "Can't… move…"

Ruby looked around frantically for an escape route. The door was blocked by debris. The windows were too high to reach. They were trapped.

"Ruby…" Sax whispered, his voice fading. "I… I loved…"

His voice trailed off, his eyes fluttering closed. Ruby stared at his lifeless body, tears streaming down her face. The roar of the flames intensified, the heat unbearable.

She knew there was no hope.

"Goodbye, Sax," she whispered, her voice choked with sobs. "Goodbye…"

As the flames engulfed her, Ruby thought of their dreams, of the music they had planned to make, of the fame and fortune they had yearned for.....

The air in the Sapphire Club was a smoky haze. Sax Martin, his fedora pulled low over his eyes, scanned the room for the Midnight Howlers. He'd heard whispers – rumors that they crackled with an electric energy – a band that could make the dead dance.

Suddenly, the stage lights dimmed. A single spotlight pierced the gloom, landing on a figure perched on a stool. It was a woman.

She was breathtaking.

Her dress, a shimmering emerald green, clung to curves that defied gravity. Her hair, a raven black waterfall, cascaded down her back, framing a face sculpted by moonlight. But it was her voice that truly stole his breath away.

It vibrated deep within him, sending shivers down his spine. The first notes, raw and aching, echoed through the club, silencing the boisterous chatter.

Sax Martin forgot about the Midnight Howlers. Forgot about Apex Records. Forgot about everything except the woman on the stage.

He watched, mesmerized, as she poured her soul into the song, every note a raw, emotional confession. The music, a haunting blend of blues and jazz, pulsed through the club, awakening something primal within him.

When the song ended, a hush fell over the crowd. Then, a roar.

He had to know who this siren was.

As the applause died down...

Slowly making his way through the crowd, his mind was a whirlwind of ambition and desire.

Sax: (Approaching the stage) Excuse me, ma'am. That… that was absolutely phenomenal.

The woman turns, startled. Her eyes, the color of a stormy sea, meet his.

Woman: (Smiling, a touch wary) Thank you.

Sax: I'm Sax Martin. I, uh… I work in the music business.

Woman: (Intrigued) Oh? And what exactly do you do in the music business, Mr. Martin?

Sax: I'm an executive at Apex Records. We… we think we might have found a star.

Woman: (A playful eyebrow raise) Oh really? And who might that be?

Sax: (Gesturing vaguely towards the stage) Well, I… I haven't heard the band yet, but…

He trails off, unable to take his eyes off her.

Woman: (Chuckling) You're quite the charmer, Mr. Martin.

Sax: (Flustered) I… I didn't mean to sound…

Woman: My name is Ruby. Ruby Valentine.

Sax: It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Ruby.

Ruby: (Smiling) Pleased to meet you as well Mr. Martin.

Sax: Would you be available to meet at my studio tomorrow, say 1 pm.

Ruby: (A playful glint in her eye) I What do you have in mind Mr. Martin?

Sax Martin: Success Ruby, Success.

Ruby: I like that. Okay then, I'll see you at 1.

The next day, 1 PM - Apex Records Studio

Sunlight streams through the large windows of the recording studio, Sax Martin, impeccably dressed, paces nervously. He glances at his watch, then at the door, a nervous energy buzzing beneath his skin.

Finally, the door swings open and Ruby Valentine enters. She's wearing a simple black dress that accentuates her curves and carries a worn leather satchel. Her eyes, a captivating shade of stormy grey, scan the room, taking in the gleaming equipment.

SAX
(Smiling) Ruby! Come in, come in.

RUBY
(Stepping inside) This place is impressive.

SAX
(Offering her a hand) Thank you. Please, have a seat. I've got some coffee brewing.

RUBY
(Taking a seat) Thank you. Coffee sounds perfect.

SAX
(Pouring two cups) So, Ruby, tell me about yourself. What kind of music do you like to sing?

RUBY
(Taking a sip of coffee) Well, it's a bit of everything, really. Blues, jazz, gospel...

SAX
(Intrigued) And who are the other members of your band?

RUBY
(A hint of sadness in her voice) There isn't a band. I… I usually perform solo.

SAX
(Surprised) Solo? You were incredible last night. You held the entire club captive.

RUBY
(A small smile) Thank you. I… I've always been a bit of a loner.

SAX
(Observing her closely) I see. Well, I think your talent deserves to be heard. At Apex Records I believe in giving artists the platform they need to succeed.

RUBY
(Skeptical) And what's in it for you?

SAX
(Chuckles) Fair question. We believe in your talent. We think you have the potential to be a major star. And we want to help you get there.

RUBY
(Eyes narrowing) And what exactly does that entail?

SAX
(Leaning forward) I can offer you a recording contract, a marketing campaign, a tour… the works.

RUBY
(Considering) This sounds… tempting. But I'm not sure I'm ready for all that.

SAX
(Understanding) I understand. It's a big step. But we're here to support you every step of the way. We can take our time.

RUBY
(Looking at him intently) You seem… sincere.

SAX
(Meeting her gaze) I am. I truly believe in you, Ruby.

RUBY
(A slow smile spreading across her face) Tell you what. I'll think about it.

SAX
(Smiling) Of course. No pressure at all. I'll be here whenever you're ready.

Ruby finishes her coffee, a thoughtful expression on her face. Sax Martin watches her, a mixture of anticipation and excitement bubbling within him. He knows he's just witnessed something special. Ruby Valentine is a force of nature, and he intends to help her unleash her full potential.

(pause)

Ruby: Maybe we could start with a demo. See how it goes and then we'll take it fron there.

Sax: I've got just the song.

For the next year they recorded four songs as their mutual respect grew. They truly wanted the same thing. Respect and success.

Recording Studio Fire
October 28, 1948

A fire of undetermined origin destroyed the Apex Recording Studio warehouse last night, killing owner Sax Martin and a label artist. The fire, which broke out around midnight, quickly engulfed the building, trapping those inside. Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames, but the building was destroyed. The cause of the fire is unknown, but authorities are investigating the possibility of arson.

a case for arson...

The influence of organized crime extended into city politics and law enforcement, hindering efforts to combat crime effectively.

While organized crime dominated headlines, Chicago also faced issues with street crime, including robberies, assaults, and homicides.

The post-war period in Chicago witnessed social and racial tensions, which did sometimes manifest in acts of arson.

Add to that...

Sax Martin owed a lot of money and had a very attractive 'white' girlfriend. One could make a case for arson.

Sax and his lady friend...
In 1948 Chicago, an interracial relationship would have faced significant social and legal challenges. With a potential for harassment, insults, and even violence from those opposed to their relationship.

The smoky haze of the Regal Theater hung heavy with the sounds of jazz. Sax leaned against the velvet rope, a sly grin playing on his lips as he watched the dancers. The music, a whirlwind of trumpet and sax, made his toes tap.

A figure emerged from the shadows, a vision in a silk dress the color of moonlight. Evelyn Johnson, her eyes wide with a mixture of wonder and apprehension, surveyed the scene. Sax, with a practiced ease that belied his years, sauntered over.

"Lost, kitten?" he purred, his voice a low rumble.

Evelyn, startled, stammered, "N-no. Just...admiring the atmosphere."

"Atmosphere's fine," Sax drawled, gesturing to the dancers, "but the real show's happening out here." He winked. "Name's Sax."

"Evelyn," she replied, a hint of defiance in her tone.

"Well, Evelyn," Sax said, his gaze lingering on her face, "you seem like you could use a little more atmosphere in your life."

Evelyn felt a blush creep up her neck, but she couldn't deny the spark of interest in his eyes. "And you think you're the one to provide it?"

Sax chuckled, a low, melodic sound. "Wouldn't hurt to try, now would it?"

Their eyes met, a silent conversation passing between them. The music swelled, a passionate plea from the saxophone. Sax, with a mischievous glint in his eye, offered Evelyn his arm. "Shall we dance?"

Evelyn hesitated, then with a defiant tilt of her head, slipped her hand through his. As they moved to the rhythm of the music, the world around them faded away. There was only the music, the feel of his hand on her waist, and the intoxicating promise in his eyes.

Evelyn was born and raised in a well-to-do family in Chicago's Gold Coast. Her father, a prominent attorney, instilled in her a strong sense of independence and a thirst for knowledge. However, the suffocating confines of her privileged world often left her feeling stifled.

Evelyn yearned for something more than the predictable social gatherings and the carefully curated life her parents had envisioned for her. She devoured books on jazz, fascinated by the raw energy and the social commentary it embodied. She secretly attended small clubs on the South Side, mesmerized by the music and the vibrant, albeit segregated, culture.

The encounter with Sax at the Regal Theater was a turning point. His charisma, his connection to the music she loved, and the forbidden nature of their interaction ignited a fire within her. It was a taste of freedom, a glimpse into a world that was both alluring and terrifying.

Now Evelyn and the Mayor, that's not difficult to explain.

Given Evelyn's background and the potential for a scandalous relationship with Sax, she recognizes the limitations of her current social circle and the potential for political influence.

The Mayor offered Evelyn a life of privilege and influence in exchange for her discreet friendship.

While Evelyn did enjoy the luxuries and social status she had achieved, she began to question the morality of her involvement with the Mayor. She witnessed the corrupt underbelly of his power and grappled with the ethical compromises she has made.

The screech of sirens pierced the night, cutting through the crackling of the flames. Red and blue lights flashed, illuminating the smoke-filled sky. Detective O'Malley and Detective Walsh arrived at the scene, their faces grim.

"Looks like we have a major one here," O'Malley observed, stepping over the police cordon.

Fire Marshal Rizzoli, his face soot-stained, approached them. "Warehouse fire. Started somewhere in the back, I'd say. Heavy fuel load, spread like wildfire."

"Any sign of arson?" Walsh asked, his eyes scanning the charred remains.

Rizzoli shook his head. "Too early to tell. But the speed of the fire… suspicious. Could be an accidental electrical fire, but…" He trailed off, gesturing towards the rubble. "Something doesn't sit right."

O'Malley nodded. "Any bodies recovered?"

"Two so far," Rizzoli replied. "Difficult to confirm with the extent of the damage."

O'Malley turned to Walsh. "Let's get to work. Interview any witnesses you can find."

(As they moved through the crowd that had gathered outside, O'Malley noticed a young woman sitting on the curb, her face pale and drawn)

"Excuse me, ma'am," he said gently. "Were you in the warehouse?"

The woman, her eyes red-rimmed, looked up at him. "No… I wasn't… I was suppose to be but I had work."

O'Malley's gaze sharpened. "Did you know anyone in the building?"

The woman shook her head yes, tears welling up in her eyes. "He… he didn't make it."

O'Malley: "I'm sorry for your loss ma'am. What's your name?"

Evelyn... Evelyn Martin.

Detectives O'Malley and Walsh head back to the station house and begin their investigation into a suspect warehouse fire.

The phone rings...

Walsh picks up...

It's not long before Walsh's face lights up like a Christmas tree.

O'Malley: So...

Walsh: We have an informant. It's big. He's asking for witness protection in writing or it's no dice.

O'Malley: Okay. Make it happen.

Walsh: He says he will only deal with me. He says word is I can be trusted.

O'Malley: He's all yours Walsh. Make it happen.

24 hours later...

Hiding in plain sight, if you will, Detective Walsh meets his informant behind the Merchandise Mart.

Walsh: What's your name?

Informant: No names...not until we sign the papers.

Walsh: Okay... so what do you have for me?

Informant: That warehouse was torched. But they messed up.

Walsh: Did they.

Informant: The target was Evelyn.

Walsh: Evelyn, what's she got to do with any of this?

Informant: It was a hit ordered from high up the food chain.

Walsh: How high?

Informant: Let's talk about witness protection.
Walsh: What are you so worried about?

Informant: My life, my family's life...
Do I have your word...for me and my family.

(pause)

Walsh: Yes. You have my word.

Informant: The Mayor.

Walsh: The Mayor?

Informant: She's pregnant with his baby. His wife would destroy him in divorce court, not to mention it's the end of any of his political ambitions.

Walsh: How do I know you're not making all this up?

(handing Detective Walsh a plain brown envelope)

Informant: Half now, the other half when we sign the papers. This needs to happen fast. The word on the street is they're planning another hit. I'll be in touch.

back at headquarters...

O'Malley: So... how did it go?

Walsh: Are you ready?

The warehouse was torched. The Mayor ordered the hit. Evelyn is pregnant with the Mayor's baby. He's working on another hit and the Informant gave me this. He says we'll get the rest after a witness protection document has been signed.

Now what?

O'Malley: Fuck...We need to get Evelyn off the street.

Walsh: If we could find her.

O'Malley: I've got a connection at the DA's Office. Time to pay him a visit. We need to get them involved.

Walsh: We're done for if your friend fingers us.

O'Malley: Our wives are sisters. Don't worry he can be trusted.

(O'Malley picks up the phone and calls his brother in law. Like Detective Walsh, the audience only hears a one sided conversation)

"Hello Jack, it's Aiden. Fine fine the family's doing well. And yours? Ah good to hear, good to hear....listen Jack, something has just been dropped in my lap and it's of a very sensitive nature. Can we get together later today? Great, tonight, 8 o'clock at Duffy's, and Jack... this needs to be our little secret for now.

Okay, Jack, thanks again. I'll see you tonight."

(pause)

Walsh: Do you want backup?

O'Malley: No... I need you to find Evelyn and stash her somewhere out of sight. Put someone you trust on guard duty. We need her alive and able to testify.

Walsh: Will do.

(as Walsh secures his firearm)

O'Malley: Good luck Walsh.

Duffy's Tavern, a dimly lit haven tucked away on a side street near City Hall. Its facade was unassuming – a weathered brick exterior with a single lantern casting a feeble glow over the entrance. Inside, the atmosphere was thick with the scent of cigarette smoke and Irish whiskey.

The bar itself was a long, narrow affair, lined with worn wooden booths that offered a semblance of privacy. The walls were adorned with faded photographs of long-forgotten sporting events and the occasional pin-up girl. A lone television set in the corner flickered with static, broadcasting a grainy Chicago Bears football game.

(Chicago Bears games were broadcast on WJJD/WIND in 1948 as the George Hallas coached Bears were at the end of what would be an improved 10-2 season, though the Bears just missed out clinching the NFL West Title and Hallas' first championship game.)

Duffy's clientele was a suspect mix of regulars – weathered businessmen, hard-boiled detectives, and the occasional shifty-eyed character who seemed to appear out of nowhere. The bartender, a man named Gus with a perpetually furrowed brow and a suspicious glare, maintained a watchful silence, never prying into the conversations of his patrons.

A back room, accessible through a heavy velvet curtain, was the true heart of Duffy's. Here, the lighting was even dimmer, the booths more secluded. This was where deals were brokered, secrets exchanged, and plans hatched.

Duffy's Tavern, in its unassuming guise, served as a sanctuary for those seeking a discreet meeting place in the bustling heart of Chicago. It was a place where appearances were deceiving, and the quiet murmur of conversation often concealed far more than it revealed.

(O'Malley enters the bar and sees his brother in law Jack Murphy signal to follow him past the velvet curtain. After some pleasantries...O'Malley hands Murphy the envelope)

Murphy: What's this?

(a waitress brings a pitcher of beer and two menus)

O'Malley: Thank you Kathleen.

Kathleen: My pleasure sir.

(pause)

O'Malley: Right now... that envelope contains a powder keg. Take a look.

(As Murphy studies it's contents his eyes are open wide)

Murphy: Powder keg my ars, this is the Titanic.

(pause)

Murphy: How do we know this is real?

O'Malley: My partners informant has the rest of the documents. There's a small matter of witness protection for him and his family.

Murphy: I can make that happen.

O'Malley: I thought you could.

Murphy: Where's the girl?

O'Malley: My partner is taking care of that as we speak.

Murphy: You know he won't stop trying until she's out of the picture... for good.

O'Malley: When the time comes to hand down an indictment, we should give it to the papers as well. Blindside the SOB.

Murphy: Well Aiden... either our glasses will be raised or our coffins will be lowered.

O'Malley: I'll drink to that.

(Kathleen returns with a message for O'Malley)

Kathleen: Pardon me. There was a message for you. He didn't leave his name or number. He just said to tell you 'problem solved'.

O'Malley: Okay then. I think we're ready to order now.

(Just how Detective Walsh located Evelyn so fast remains a mystery)

A Paper Boy shouts at the top of his lungs. "EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT...MAYOR INDICTED...AFFAIR WITH YOUNG WOMAN EXPOSED...READ ALL ABOUT IT..."

O'Malley: A good strong voice that young man has. Wouldn't you agree Walsh?

Walsh: Music to my ears O'Malley, music to my ears.

O'Malley: C'mon Walsh I'll buy you a beer.

Walsh: Sounds good to me.

THE END
OR WAS IT...

Maybe this was a case of Walsh's misplaced trust or...

Evelyn appears to be gone again. Maybe this time, gone for good.

CAST:
Ruby Valentine
Sax Martin
Detective O'Malley
Detective Walsh
Fire Marshal Joseph P.Rizzoli
Evelyn Martin
Informant
John "Jack" Murphy (O'Malley's brother in law)
Kathleen the Waitress at Duffy's
Gus (Duffy's barkeep)
Paper Boy

narrated by
Ben and Chris

written by ANONYMOUS
© 2024 ANONYMOUS MOVING IMAGES

https://filmfreeway.com/IamAnonymous409