In Memoriam
James Brown
May 3, 1933 – December 25, 2006 · aged 73
Funk · Soul · R&B
Universally known as the 'Godfather of Soul' and the 'Hardest Working Man in Show Business,' James Brown was arguably the single most important figure in the transformation of R&B into funk. Born into extreme poverty in South Carolina in 1933, Brown built an empire on the sheer force of his dynamic voice, unparalleled stage presence, and rhythmic genius. In the late 1960s, he stripped music down to its percussive essence, emphasizing 'The One' (the first beat of the measure) and essentially inventing funk. His grooves laid the foundational DNA for hip-hop, making him the most sampled artist in musical history. Beyond music, Brown was a vital cultural icon during the civil rights movement, providing anthems of Black pride like 'Say It Loud - I'm Black and I'm Proud.' His passing on Christmas Day in 2006 at the age of 73 marked the end of an era, but his grooves will compel people to dance forever.
Milestones
I Got You (I Feel Good), Papa's Got a Brand New Bag, Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine
Also remembered in 2006
- Ali Farka Touré (1939–2006)
- Arthur Lee (1945–2006)
- J Dilla (1974–2006)
- Syd Barrett (1946–2006)