James Brown is often referred to as the “Godfather of Soul,” and for good reason. He was one of the most influential and iconic musicians of the 20th century, known for his energetic and dynamic performances, incredible vocals, and powerful message of empowerment. Brown’s music has had a lasting impact on popular culture, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have come after him.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the 10 best James Brown songs of all time. From early hits like “Please, Please, Please” and “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” to later classics like “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” and “The Payback,” we’ll explore the music that made James Brown a legend. We’ll examine the themes and messages behind each song, as well as the unique musical elements that make them so unforgettable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of James Brown or just discovering his music for the first time, this list is sure to have something that will get you up and dancing.
1. Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine
“Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” is a classic funk song performed by James Brown, released in 1970. The song’s high energy, driving rhythm, and catchy lyrics have made it a staple of Brown’s live performances and a beloved classic among funk and soul music fans. The song’s iconic opening riff, played on a distorted guitar, sets the tone for the funky groove that follows, while Brown’s raspy vocals and powerful screams add a sense of urgency and excitement to the track. Lyrically, the song is a celebration of the power of sexuality and the joy of physical expression, making it a perfect example of Brown’s signature blend of social commentary and danceable funk. “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” is a true classic of funk and soul music, and a testament to James Brown’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time.
2. Cold Sweat
“Cold Sweat” is a funk and soul classic by James Brown, released in 1967. The song features a stripped-down arrangement, with a repetitive bassline, staccato horn blasts, and Brown’s commanding vocals front and center. The song’s signature groove, characterized by a tight, syncopated rhythm, has been widely sampled and imitated in countless genres since its release. Lyrically, “Cold Sweat” is a reflection on the intensity of human emotions, exploring themes of love, pain, and desire with Brown’s trademark mix of sincerity and showmanship. The song’s opening scream and famous breakbeat have become iconic elements of funk and hip-hop music, solidifying “Cold Sweat” as one of James Brown’s most enduring and influential hits.
3. I Got the Feelin’
“I Got the Feelin'” is a classic funk and soul song performed by James Brown, released in 1968. The song features a tight rhythm section, punchy horns, and Brown’s soulful vocals, creating a danceable and infectious groove that is instantly recognizable. The song’s lyrics reflect Brown’s unique style of social commentary, exploring themes of love, desire, and self-empowerment with a blend of raw emotion and infectious energy. The song’s catchy hook, with Brown exclaiming “I got the feelin’,” has become an iconic element of funk and soul music, inspiring countless artists in the decades since its release. With its infectious groove and uplifting message, “I Got the Feelin'” remains a beloved classic of James Brown’s extensive catalog, and a testament to his lasting impact on popular music.
4. It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World
“It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” is a soul classic performed by James Brown, released in 1966. The song features a lush orchestration, with sweeping strings and Brown’s powerful vocals at the forefront. The song’s lyrics are a poignant reflection on gender relations, with Brown exploring the ways in which women are often undervalued and marginalized in a world dominated by men. Despite its serious subject matter, the song is characterized by a deep sense of soulful energy and emotional intensity, making it a standout among Brown’s many hits. “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless artists and serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. As a testament to Brown’s legacy as a soul pioneer, the song remains an enduring classic of the genre.
5. Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag
“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is a classic funk and soul song performed by James Brown, released in 1965. The song features a driving rhythm, with a prominent bassline, catchy horns, and Brown’s trademark screams and grunts punctuating the groove. The song’s lyrics celebrate individuality and self-expression, with Brown proclaiming that he has a new way of dancing and a new style of music that’s all his own. The song’s catchy hook and infectious groove have made it a staple of funk and soul playlists for decades, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in Brown’s footsteps. “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” remains one of James Brown’s most beloved and influential hits, a testament to his unique blend of social commentary, musical innovation, and undeniable showmanship.
6. I Got You (I Feel Good)
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” is a classic soul and funk song performed by James Brown, released in 1965. The song features a driving rhythm, with a catchy bassline and horns punctuating Brown’s exuberant vocals. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joys of love and emotional fulfillment, with Brown proclaiming that he feels “good” and “nice” thanks to the love of his partner. The song’s upbeat energy and infectious groove have made it one of Brown’s most enduring hits, inspiring countless artists in the decades since its release. “I Got You (I Feel Good)” is a testament to Brown’s incredible talent as a performer, songwriter, and innovator, and a beloved classic of soul and funk music.
7. Living In America
“Living In America” is a dance-rock and funk song performed by James Brown, released in 1985. The song features a driving beat, catchy horns, and Brown’s powerful vocals, with a chorus that celebrates the unique energy and spirit of life in the United States. The song’s upbeat energy and catchy hooks made it a commercial success, becoming one of Brown’s most popular songs in the latter part of his career. The song’s lyrics are a testament to Brown’s enduring optimism and patriotism, highlighting the joys of living in a country with boundless opportunities and possibilities. “Living In America” remains a beloved classic of Brown’s extensive catalog, a testament to his ability to evolve and innovate while staying true to the core elements of his unique style of funk and soul music.
8. Super Bad
“Super Bad” is a classic funk and soul song performed by James Brown, released in 1970. The song features a driving rhythm, with a funky bassline, punchy horns, and Brown’s powerful vocals, creating an infectious groove that is impossible not to move to. The song’s lyrics are a celebration of party culture and the joys of dancing, with Brown exhorting his audience to “shake your money maker” and “let it all hang out.” The song’s catchy hooks and energetic performance have made it a staple of funk and soul playlists for decades, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in Brown’s footsteps. “Super Bad” remains a beloved classic of James Brown’s extensive catalog, and a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of popular music.
9. Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud
“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” is a powerful anthem of the civil rights movement performed by James Brown, released in 1968. The song features a driving funk rhythm, with a prominent bassline, horns, and Brown’s passionate vocals delivering a message of empowerment and pride to African Americans across the country. The song’s lyrics celebrate black culture, history, and identity, encouraging listeners to reject negative stereotypes and embrace their heritage with confidence and pride. The song’s bold message and infectious groove made it a landmark moment in Brown’s career and a cultural touchstone of the era. “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” remains a powerful and enduring symbol of the struggle for civil rights, a testament to James Brown’s role as a musical pioneer and social activist.
10. Please, Please, Please
“Please, Please, Please” is an early classic by James Brown, released in 1956. The song features a simple arrangement, with a slow, soulful tempo and Brown’s plaintive vocals at the forefront. The song’s lyrics are a plea for love and affection, with Brown begging his partner to give him one more chance to prove his devotion. The song’s raw emotion and vulnerability made it an instant classic, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in Brown’s footsteps. “Please, Please, Please” remains a beloved classic of the soul and R&B genres, and a testament to James Brown’s incredible talent as a performer and songwriter. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of soulful, heartfelt music.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
