Ralph Bass, born Ralph Basso Jr. on May 1, 1911, in the Bronx, New York City, was a pivotal figure in the American music industry, particularly known for his contributions to rhythm and blues. He was the son of an Italian Catholic father and a German-American Jewish mother and was raised in a kosher household. Bass displayed musical talent early on, becoming an accomplished violinist. His exposure to diverse cultural influences in the Bronx led him to explore various musical genres, including jazz and blues.

Bass's career in the music industry spanned from 1941 to 1997, during which he worked as a record producer and A&R scout for several influential labels such as Black & White, Savoy, King, Federal, and Chess Records. He played a crucial role in bringing African American music into the mainstream, producing and recording artists like Etta James, Sam Cooke, James Brown, and groups such as the Platters and the Dominoes. His work with James Brown, particularly the hit "Please, Please, Please," is legendary.

Throughout his career, Bass was known for his ability to spot and nurture talent, earning a reputation as a "master talent scout" and a "prolific producer." He was instrumental in the success of numerous R&B hits and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 as a nonperformer. Bass passed away on March 5, 1997, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy as one of the great starmakers of early rock & roll.