James Brown (1933–2006) was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, musician, and bandleader who is often referred to as the “Godfather of Soul.” Born on May 3, 1933, in Barnwell, South Carolina, Brown rose to prominence in the mid-20th century with his groundbreaking contributions to funk, soul, and R&B music.
Brown’s career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the most influential and iconic figures in popular music. He was known for his electrifying stage presence, dynamic performances, and innovative musical style, which combined elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, jazz, and funk.
Throughout his career, Brown released numerous hit songs that became staples of the soul and funk genres. Some of his most famous recordings include “Please, Please, Please,” “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World,” and “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine.”
Brown was also renowned for his distinctive vocal style, characterized by his powerful voice, passionate delivery, and improvisational flair. He was a prolific songwriter and bandleader, known for his tight-knit backing bands, such as The Famous Flames and The J.B.’s, who helped shape the sound of funk music.
In addition to his musical contributions, Brown was a cultural icon and a symbol of Black pride and empowerment. He played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement and used his music as a platform to address social issues and advocate for change.
Over the course of his career, Brown received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He remains one of the most influential and celebrated figures in the history of popular music, with his impact on the industry and culture still felt today.
1. I Got You (I Feel Good)
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” is a funk song recorded by James Brown. It was released as a single in 1965 and later included on his album “I Got You (I Feel Good).” The song was written by James Brown and credited to Brown and his bandleader at the time, Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis.
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” is one of James Brown’s most famous and enduring recordings, and it has become a classic of funk and soul music. The song features Brown’s trademark energetic vocals, accompanied by a tight rhythm section, horns, and a catchy riff played on the saxophone.
The lyrics of “I Got You (I Feel Good)” express the narrator’s feelings of joy and happiness, attributing them to the presence of a special someone in their life. Brown’s exuberant delivery and infectious energy add to the song’s celebratory atmosphere, making it a favorite among fans and a staple of his live performances.
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and it has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as one of James Brown’s signature songs and a classic of popular music.
2. Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine
“Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” is a funk song by the iconic American musician James Brown. Released in 1970 as a single, the song was written by James Brown, Bobby Byrd, and Ron Lenhoff.
“Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” is characterized by its infectious groove, driving rhythm, and energetic performance. The song features James Brown’s dynamic vocals, punctuated by his trademark screams and grunts, along with tight instrumentation from his backing band, The J.B.’s. The repetitive and hypnotic nature of the song’s riff contributes to its irresistible danceability.
Lyrically, the song is about feeling empowered and ready to dance and have a good time. The lyrics express a sense of liberation and confidence, with the narrator declaring their desire to get up and get moving on the dance floor.
“Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” became one of James Brown’s signature songs and a major hit, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious groove and high-energy performance have made it a staple of funk and soul music and a favorite among fans of James Brown’s music.
The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, with “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” being sampled and referenced in numerous songs across various genres. It remains a timeless classic and a testament to James Brown’s enduring legacy as the “Godfather of Soul.”
3. It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World
“It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” is a classic soul song by the legendary American musician James Brown. Released in 1966 as a single, the song was written by James Brown and Betty Jean Newsome.
The song’s lyrics explore the idea of the male-dominated world, highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of men while also acknowledging the importance of women in their lives. Despite the title’s assertion, the lyrics express a sense of vulnerability and loneliness, suggesting that without the love and companionship of women, men would be lost.
Musically, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” features a soulful melody, powerful vocals from James Brown, and a lush orchestral arrangement. The song’s dynamic shifts and emotional depth capture the complexity of its themes, creating a poignant and thought-provoking listening experience.
“It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” became one of James Brown’s most iconic and enduring songs, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its powerful message and soul-stirring performance struck a chord with audiences, making it a classic in the world of soul and R&B music.
Over the years, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a timeless anthem of gender dynamics and human relationships.
4. Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag
“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is a funk song recorded by James Brown. It was released as a single in 1965 and later included on his album of the same name. The song was written by James Brown and produced by James Brown himself.
“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is considered one of James Brown’s signature songs and a classic of funk music. It features a distinctive groove with a prominent bassline, tight rhythm section, and infectious horn riffs. The song’s innovative rhythmic structure and dynamic arrangement helped establish it as a groundbreaking recording in the development of funk music.
The lyrics of “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” celebrate the narrator’s excitement and confidence as he unveils his new dance moves and style. The phrase “brand new bag” is a metaphor for a fresh approach or innovation, reflecting Brown’s desire to push musical boundaries and create something new and exciting.
“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s influence extended beyond its chart performance, as it helped popularize funk music and inspire generations of musicians.
Over the years, “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” has been covered by numerous artists and sampled in various songs across different genres. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its status as a classic of popular music and a cornerstone of James Brown’s legendary career.
5. The Payback
“The Payback” is a funk and soul song by the iconic American musician James Brown. Released in 1974 as the title track of his album of the same name, the song was written by James Brown, Fred Wesley, and John Starks.
“The Payback” is characterized by its infectious groove, funky rhythm, and James Brown’s dynamic vocals. The song features a driving bassline, tight horn section, and rhythmic guitar riffs, creating a powerful and energetic sound that’s emblematic of Brown’s style.
Lyrically, “The Payback” explores themes of revenge and retribution. The narrator vows to seek justice against those who have wronged him, declaring that “I don’t know karate, but I know ka-razor,” and emphasizing that payback is inevitable.
“The Payback” became one of James Brown’s most iconic and enduring songs, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious groove and powerful message have made it a favorite among fans of funk and soul music, and it has been sampled and referenced in numerous songs across various genres.
“The Payback” remains a classic in James Brown’s catalog and a testament to his influence on the world of music. Its timeless appeal and dynamic sound continue to captivate listeners, making it a staple of funk and soul playlists to this day.
6. Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud
“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” is a funk and soul song recorded by James Brown. It was released as a single in 1968 and later included on his album of the same name. The song was written by James Brown and Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis and produced by James Brown himself.
“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” is one of James Brown’s most iconic and socially significant recordings. It became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement and a rallying cry for Black empowerment and pride. The song’s lyrics express a message of self-affirmation and defiance in the face of racial injustice and discrimination.
The phrase “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” serves as a declaration of Black identity and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace their heritage and stand up against oppression. The song’s powerful message, coupled with its infectious groove and energetic performance, resonated with audiences and helped galvanize the Black community during a turbulent period in American history.
“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its impact extended beyond its chart performance, as it became an anthem of empowerment and solidarity for generations of Black Americans.
The song’s enduring legacy has made it a timeless classic of funk and soul music and a symbol of the fight for equality and justice. It continues to inspire and empower listeners around the world, reaffirming the importance of self-love, pride, and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. Get on the Good Foot
“Get on the Good Foot” is a funk and soul song by the legendary American musician James Brown. Released in 1972 as a single and the title track of his album of the same name, the song was written by James Brown, Fred Wesley, and Joseph Mims.
“Get on the Good Foot” is characterized by its infectious groove, upbeat rhythm, and James Brown’s dynamic vocals. The song features a driving bassline, tight horn section, and rhythmic guitar riffs, creating a lively and energetic sound that’s emblematic of Brown’s style.
Lyrically, “Get on the Good Foot” encourages listeners to get up, get moving, and enjoy life. The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of positivity, self-expression, and dancing as a means of escaping life’s troubles and embracing joy and freedom.
“Get on the Good Foot” became a major hit for James Brown, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious groove and uplifting message have made it a favorite among fans of funk and soul music, and it has been sampled and referenced in numerous songs across various genres.
“Get on the Good Foot” remains a classic in James Brown’s catalog and a testament to his influence on the world of music. Its timeless appeal and dynamic sound continue to inspire listeners to get up and get moving on the dance floor.
8. Cold Sweat
“Cold Sweat” is a funk song recorded by James Brown. It was released as a single in 1967 and later included on his album “Cold Sweat.” The song was written by James Brown and Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis, with some contributions from other members of Brown’s band.
“Cold Sweat” is considered one of James Brown’s signature songs and a landmark recording in the development of funk music. It features a distinctive groove with a syncopated rhythm, driving bassline, and horn stabs, characteristic of Brown’s innovative approach to rhythm and groove.
The lyrics of “Cold Sweat” describe the physical and emotional sensations associated with feeling cold sweat, which is often a symptom of fear, anxiety, or excitement. Brown’s passionate delivery and intense vocal performance convey a sense of urgency and intensity that adds to the song’s dynamic energy.
“Cold Sweat” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its groundbreaking rhythmic structure and innovative production techniques influenced countless musicians and helped define the sound of funk music.
Over the years, “Cold Sweat” has been sampled and covered by numerous artists across various genres, solidifying its status as a classic of popular music. Its enduring popularity and cultural significance have cemented its place in the pantheon of James Brown’s legendary recordings.
9. Super Bad
“Super Bad” is a funk and soul song by the legendary American musician James Brown. Released in 1970 as a single, the song was written by James Brown and produced by Brown himself.
“Super Bad” is characterized by its infectious groove, driving rhythm, and James Brown’s dynamic vocals. The song features a prominent horn section, rhythmic guitar riffs, and a funky bassline, creating a high-energy and danceable sound that’s emblematic of Brown’s style.
Lyrically, “Super Bad” celebrates the feeling of being “super bad” or cool, confident, and unstoppable. The song’s lyrics emphasize self-assurance, swagger, and the ability to captivate and impress others with one’s style and charisma.
“Super Bad” became a major hit for James Brown, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious groove and energetic performance have made it a favorite among fans of funk and soul music, and it has been sampled and referenced in numerous songs across various genres.
“Super Bad” remains a classic in James Brown’s catalog and a testament to his influence on the world of music. Its timeless appeal and dynamic sound continue to inspire listeners to get up and dance whenever it’s played.
10. Please, Please, Please
“Please, Please, Please” is a rhythm and blues song recorded by James Brown and The Famous Flames. It was released as a single in 1956 by Federal Records. The song was written by James Brown and Johnny Terry.
“Please, Please, Please” is one of James Brown’s earliest recordings and served as his debut single. The song features Brown’s impassioned vocals, expressing desperation and longing for a lost love. The Famous Flames provide harmonies and call-and-response vocals throughout the song, adding to its emotional intensity.
The lyrics of “Please, Please, Please” convey the narrator’s plea for forgiveness and reconciliation, begging his lover to stay with him despite their troubles. Brown’s raw and emotive delivery, coupled with the song’s soulful melody and gospel-inspired arrangement, helped establish him as a dynamic and captivating performer.
“Please, Please, Please” was a modest success upon its initial release but gained popularity over time, becoming one of James Brown’s signature songs. Its enduring appeal and influence have solidified its status as a classic of rhythm and blues and a landmark recording in Brown’s prolific career.
Over the years, “Please, Please, Please” has been covered by numerous artists and sampled in various songs across different genres. Its timeless message of love and longing continues to resonate with listeners, making it a cherished favorite among fans of soul and R&B music.
Edward Tomlin 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.
