The Rhythm & Blues Foundation provides vital financial and medical assistance to R&B artists in need, while also supporting educational outreach, curated initiatives, and archival activities. The Foundation's flagship "Pioneer Awards" program has recognized the artistic contributions and excellence of over 150 legendary R&B artists who have impacted the world through their music. Founded in 1988 after discussions about royalty issues between Ruth Brown, attorney Howell Begle, and Atlantic Records' Ahmet Ertegun, the Foundation was the first organization to stand up for the rights of artists not fairly compensated for their recordings.