How Influential Was James Brown?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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He was 73 years old. Brown is unquestionably one of the most influential musical pioneers of the last half-century.

The Godfather of Soul

, the inventor of funk, the grandfather of hip-hop—Brown is cited as a seminal influence by artists ranging from Mick Jagger to Michael Jackson to Afrika Bambaataa to Jay-Z.

How did James Brown influence the world?

Brown not only directly helped create the genres of soul, funk, and modern R&B, he

indirectly influenced an even wider range of artists

, encouraging musicians to follow the rhythm and the groove rather than simply adhering to typical musical conventions and structure.

Why was James Brown so influential?

James Brown, known for

his ability to “scream” on key and to blend multiple vocal styles together

, was one of the most influential of the 20th century. Brown also broke new ground with his landmark “live and in concert” album Live at the Apollo (1963), which stayed on the charts for 66 weeks.

How did James Brown make a difference?

In addition to recording “Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud),” the legendary icon also launched the

“Operation Black Pride” initiative

in 1968 where he reportedly presented 3,000 certificates for free Christmas dinners in impoverished neighborhoods in New York City.

How did James Brown influence soul music?

James Brown set the standard for dynamic live performance in American music. Inspired by

preachers in the Black church

, Brown started out singing in gospel quartets. As the “Godfather of Soul,” he transmuted gospel into secular music centered in the emotional conduit of the soul .

How did James Brown influence Michael Jackson?

Jackson credited the “Godfather

of Soul

” James Brown as his major influence. Jackson grew up watching his idol on television and loved the singer's moves, which he thought were effortless, and his style. We can see where Jackson got some of his moves.

Why is James Brown The Godfather of Soul?

Inspired by preachers in the Black church, Brown started out singing in gospel quartets. As the “Godfather of Soul,”

he transmuted gospel into secular music centered in the emotional conduit of the soul singer

. … 1,” Brown acted as a cultural leader, writing hit songs calling for Black pride.

What James Brown died of?

Officially,

Brown died of heart failure

in the early hours of Dec. 25, 2006, in the presence of only his personal manager, Charles Bobbit. He was 73 years old, he had abused cocaine and PCP for most of his life, and his heart finally gave out as a result.

What happened to James Brown parents?


Susie died

at age 87 on Feb. 26, 2004, at the Augusta Nursing and Rehabilitation Center almost three years before her famous only child died. Her funeral service was March 2 at the Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church in Bamberg that she attended regularly.

Who is known as the Queen of Soul?

On April 17, 18, and 19, the Houston Symphony pays tribute to

Aretha Franklin

, celebrated and known world-wide as the Queen of Soul.

Who was Michael Jackson role model?

Michael's biggest influence and his favourite performer was the Godfather of Soul,

James Brown

. Michael was blown away by James' energy and charisma on stage. He loved the way James danced, the way he so effortlessly moved his feet when he would perform.

Was Michael Jackson at James Brown's funeral?


Michael Jackson made a rare public appearance at James

Brown's funeral today (December 30). The singer paid a special tribute to the Godfather Of Soul as civil rights leaders, fans and a host of stars turned out to pay their respects in front of 8,500 mourners at the James Brown Arena in Augusta, Georgia.

Did James Brown ever do the moonwalk?


1980s

.

James Brown used the move

. In 1980, in the music video for their single “One Step Ahead” by New Zealand rock band Split Enz, keyboardist Eddie Rayner is seen performing a predecessor of the moonwalk, and Nigel Griggs (former bassist for Split Enz) allegedly taught him how to perform it.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.