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.

Trivia

• Brown was a recipient of Kennedy Center Honors for 2003, and a scheduled 2004 unveiling of a statue of Brown in Augusta was delayed because of James Brown's ongoing legal problems.
• James Brown had an appearance in the Jackie Chan movie The Tuxedo, in which he is flipped and knocked unconscious, forcing Chan to do his routine.
• In December 2004 Brown was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which was successfully treated with surgery.