James Brown (James Joseph Brown, 1933-2006) is recognized as one of the most influential figures in 20th century music. He was a seminal force in the evolution of gospel and rhythm and blues into soul and funk. He has also left his mark on numerous other musical genres, including rock, jazz, reggae, disco, dance and electronic music, and hip-hop music. Joining Bobby Byrd's vocal group The Famous Flames in 1955, Brown's early recordings from the mid-50s...
