James Brown (musician)

James Joseph Brown (born May 3,1933 in Barnwell, South Carolina) is an African American entertainer, having worked as a singer, songwriter, and record producer during his career. Brown, recognized as one of the most influential figures in 20th century music, was a prime influence in the evolution of gospel and rhythm and blues into soul and funk, a genre he is associated with as its primary founder. His quick ascent to iconic status can be attributed to his rejection of traditional music formulas, and becoming a symbol of self-motivation and achievement in the face of racism against African Americans.

Discography

For a full listing of albums and singles, see James Brown discography.

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Top ten singles

These singles reached number one on either the Billboard Hot 100 or the Billboard Top R&B Singles charts.

Related Topics:
Billboard Hot 100 - Top R&B Singles

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Albums

James Brown was not an album-oriented recording artist, and it is difficult to identify the most critical albums of his career. However, the following four albums all appear on the List of Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

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• Live at the Apollo (1963)
• In the Jungle Groove (1986)
• Star Time (1991)
• Greatest Hits (1991)