James Brown

When anyone mentions "The Godfather of Soul" or "The Hardest Working Man in Show Business", there is no doubt who they are referring to. One of the most influential artists of 20th century, James Brown has definitely worked to earn these titles of high esteem. By going from shining shoes to becoming a major entertainer and groundbreaking musician, James Brown achieved the American dream.
Growing up in poverty in Georgia, Brown scraped for money from various odd jobs. He was inspired to become a performer, and formed his band, the Flames, in 1956 with his reform school friend Bobby Bird. This group was the start of a highly successful career packed with R&B and funk hits. Their very first single, "Please Please Me," sold over a million copies.READ MORE


Listen to more James Brown at Wolfgang's Vault.

April 5, 1968, Boston Gardens Listen

Listen to more James Brown at Wolfgang's Vault.

James Brown and the Famous Flames
L'Olympia, Paris, France
November 25, 1967
Click HERE to listen.