In Memoriam
Rick James
February 1, 1948 – August 6, 2004 · aged 56
Funk · R&B · Soul
James Ambrose Johnson Jr., known globally as Rick James, was the flamboyant 'King of Punk-Funk.' Born in Buffalo in 1948, James brought a rebellious rock and roll attitude to R&B and funk music in the late 1970s and 1980s. With his braided hair, glittering spandex outfits, and unapologetic lifestyle, he was a larger-than-life superstar. His 1981 masterpiece album, 'Street Songs,' featured the colossal hits 'Super Freak' and 'Give It to Me Baby,' blending funky basslines with synthesizer hooks that dominated the dance floors. 'Super Freak' famously provided the iconic sample for MC Hammer's 'U Can't Touch This' a decade later. Unfortunately, James's later career was derailed by severe crack cocaine addiction and highly publicized legal and health battles, including a stint in prison. He died of heart failure on August 6, 2004, at the age of 56. Despite his turbulent personal life, his musical genius and infectious grooves left a massive footprint on modern funk and hip-hop.
Milestones
Super Freak, Give It to Me Baby, Mary Jane
Also remembered in 2004
- Dimebag Darrell (1966–2004)
- Johnny Ramone (1948–2004)
- Ol' Dirty Bastard (1968–2004)
- Ray Charles (1930–2004)