James Brown: The Godfather of Soul [Englisch] [Taschenbuch]

very powerful&uplifting.it touches on many different subjects.racisim,poverty etc..who hasn't this man not influenced? to see a human being overcome so many hardships&provide a innovative sound&style is incredible.but Mr.brown is a man with few peers on his level.this book explores the legend&genius of james brown.

I read James'initial autobiographical treatment of his life. Therefore, it was a must for me to obtain the 1997 "Godfather of Soul." It is a thorough, well-written masterpiece of a master showman and a remarkably diligent and outstanding individuality. This is a remarkable treatment of a remarkable individual. More than twenty years ago I watched Dick Clark's interview of James. I interpereted what he said to James at one point as follows: How are you able to withstand the pressure of being the best in the world and not having your own show when people all around who can't touch you have shows and the wealth, etcetera, that goes with it? Clark inferred that anyone who could do as James- and not receive the grand credit that they had been denied for long must be an extremely strong person. I admire how James- from a background of extreme poverty in the forests of Barnesville, S.C. worked and overcame formidable odds to become the greatest show person and dancer who ever lived. His music can instantly and frequently be heard in many recordings of all types of music. I have heard his music in spiritual song, blues, popular recordings, and opera. I have seen live operatic performances featuring his music. I particularly am moved by the phrase in the text which goes something like: If you mess with James Brown you got a problem. I recall when he took the Memphis, Tn. police dept. to court. That counts with me! In the book he alluded to someone who tried to do him physical harm just because of who he was. I am familiar with the stories I have heard of how he did a lot to help people all through his grand career. When one puts the meaning of James' life in proportional perspective one must factor in the tenor of the times and the relentless momentum that a person of his standing and color must contend with. I believe that Mr. Brown is the greatest person who ever lived- bar none. He has written many great songs and recorded many more. Despite racism and the negative influence which it may have had on his life he has managed to achieve an indelible place at the top of the annals of entertainment. When I visit a nursing home the first thing that I ask to strike up a conversation with the people who live there is, "Did you ever see James Brown?" Over 90% of them smile and say that they did see him. One man jumped out of his bed! Their eyes light up. I am sorry to see that the youth of today and some of those of days gone by have no appreciation or understanding of what Mr. Brown has meant in their lives. Early this year I matched what I read in his autobiography with some supportive writing that appeared in a recent Television Guide. The media publication said something along the lines of James' 1966 T.A.M.I. Show being the # 4 ranked television show of all time. (I have had occasion to see it on television and I would certainly like to know how I might obtain a copy of it for my personal use!) There was a popular dance that was name for James; it was called "The James Brown." I remember seeing the young children who use to do the "James Brown" dance. I remember that he owned his own black Lear jet over thirty years ago. James ran a professional organization and demanded the best from his staff and musicians. His "I Feel Good" is one of the most popular and long lived commercial songs around. I recommend this book to those who would like to be able to appreciate the nuances involved in being a man or woman, and standing tall despite the odds and your own people being against you. His choice of Bruce Tucker was a good one. I appreciate the opportunity to write what I have written. Before I take it back I shall add more to it.