#16 James Brown

James Brown is known as “The Godfather of Soul”, “Soul Brother #1”, and was “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.” Brown was a musical force as a song writer, singer, dancer, and band leader. His work provided the basis for go-go music and hip hop. Brown began in the mid-50s and evolved into his persona. By the late 60s, the transformation was complete. His most notable work came in the early 70s as music began branching out and Brown’s style became more acceptable. Throughout his career, Brown was socially active. After the King Assassination, Brown kept Boston from rioting. He supported the Civil Rights Movement and later Black Power movement and Jesse Jackson’s PUSH. Brown died in 2006.


Rock n Roll Moment: In 1988, James Brown led police on a wild two state chase before being arrested and charged with gun and drug possession and numerous driving infractions.

Essential James Brown:

Live at the Apollo (1963)
Get on the Good Foot (1972)
The Payback (1974)
Hell (1974)
In the Jungle Groove (1986)
Star Time (1991)

James Brown’s Top 10:

Papa’s Got a New Bag
I Got You (I Feel Good)
It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World
Please, Please, Please
Say it Loud--I’m Black and I’m Proud
Sex Machine
Living in America
Licking Stick
Super Bad
Hot Pants