This was the beginning of history for the Godfather of Soul. The band behind the man was not always known as the Flames. The band was first a quartet called the Gospel Starlighters led by Mr. Brown’s old friend Bobby Byrd. Their style changed with a Rhythm and Blues edge and so did the name of the band. They called themselves the Avons. No one ever knew the different dimensions to follow. As time moved on James Brown’s sound transcended into a DIG YOUR HEEL in the ground rhythm and blues bass sound. The sound became the sound of yet another band name change called the J.B.’s. The J.B.’S was known for its horn section which included the talents of Fred Wesley and Maceo Parker.

James Brown’s electrifying performances had a diverse audience following. Brown had such a strong stage presence an experience that would be imprinted on ones mind for years to come. I can speak from a childhood true experience. As a child I remember not being able to sleep on the night before a James Brown concert. I had seen him perform on television and could feel the energy just by viewing. However knowing I was about to see him in person was so very exciting. Finally, the next day came my brother and children of my mother’s best friend all went together to see the concert…myself included of course. We arrived in San Bernardino, California at a stadium were Mr. Brown was to perform. Oh, the crowd of people… shoulder to shoulder. The crowd pushing their way in trying to get in to see the Godfather of Soul. Some how, we were able to make our way up to the front of the stage. James Brown put on a show I would never forget. The cape changes stay vivid in my mind…this was a signature stunt in all of his shows. The capes were rich in color, snugged around the entertainer’s neck while hanging loosely. The capes created a rhythm of excitement. To this day I have never seen any one drop to the floor and do the splits and bounce up and catch a mike like James Brown. Yes, I can truly say I witnessed history.

James Brown had a gospel and blues mixture creating an act that had a sound no one else could touch. It’s been said his band the Flames were influenced by such acts like Hank Ballard, the Midnighters, and Fats Domino to name a few. However, it was clear to see the style was powerful. Some say this is when the phrase funk came about. Brown had a sound ahead of its time. We can’t forget about the women that performed with The Godfather of Soul. They formed the James Brown Original Funky Divas and released records in the 60’s and 70’s. Fame and more fame became Mr. Brown’s destiny. Brown, also produced other acts such as Vicki Anderson, Hank Ballard, Yvonne Fair, James Crawford, Marva Whitney, The Dapps, Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis and the Above Average Black Band to name a few.

He graced the pages of the Rolling Stone Magazine June 29th issue which gave him further well deserved publicity. However, James Brown was not just about publicity he was a man of achievement. Brown was awarded The Martin Luther King Junior Award called the “Keepers of the Dream Award.” This award is giving to people who follow positive directions and make real life movements that give us hope. Mr. Brown would do his good deeds quietly. He would play Santa Claus in his hometown Augusta, Georgia at Christmas, delivering over 800 turkeys. Donations came from Mr. Brown as well as local merchants, it’s been said. He also, wanted the youth to know how important it was to get an education. Mr. Brown left school when he was in the seventh grade. In 1966 he sang “Don’t be a Drop-Out.” This was a campaign to let kids see the value in education and keep them in school.

The Hardest Working Man In Show Business lives up to his name to the very end. James Brown’s journey was a long one but now seems so short. A man who gave us pride by his songs such as “Say It Loud, I’m Black And I’m Proud”, “I Refuse To Lose”, “It’s A New Day”, and so many more. James Brown a man who had a diverse fan base and loved people and life. Mr. Brown will be greatly missed. I guess it’s hard to say good-bye. Rest well, and thank you for you.