James Brown

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 i

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.

Beginning his professional music career in 1953, Brown scored hits from the 1950s to the 1980s. In spite of various personal problems and setbacks, he has significantly influenced music and culture as a singer, dancer and bandleader since the 1960s. He has also left his mark on musicians across many outside genres, including rock, jazz, reggae, disco, dance and electronic music, and, most notably, hip-hop music.