I'm 34 I had listened to some James Brown manly the hits. I had the oppertunity to see his show a couple of months ago. It was fantastic. I started getting some of his other albums like the big payback(my favorite) I must tell you I'm hooked I can't get enough of that sound. I finished this book today. It was awsome his takes on things are so down to earth. If you're down with Mr. Brown than you gotta read this.

One of the best bio's I have read! Took only 3-4 days to read since it moved at a very fast pace with so many things happening in James Browns life. His upbringing, music, family, record companies, IRS, managers, riots, struggles are all here. Before reading this I was a big fan even though I was not sure of the place this man occupied in music, as an innovater and business person, now I do. The first man to popularize the "live" album, strict band leader, tireless composer/arranger, producer, drummer, singer, dancer and many more things that one person had in him (as well as surrounded himself with exceptional musicians and some exceptional business partners). Also learned of his ethnic background which is Asian/Black/Indian. Many roadblocks on the way and a glimpse of what the business end of the entertainment world is like round out an exceptional and candid look into the life of Soul brother number 1!

I'm usually not so crazy about Star Biographies... for a variety of reasons, they're usually attention getting "feel bad for me" vs. "worship me" ploys taken from the pages of magazines atleast I wouldn't be caught dead reading outside of a doctor's office, however - - THIS BOOK IS DIFFERENT (!) It is enormously well written - - Though its pretty clear Bruce Tucker wrote most of it, he managed to dig down into JBs soul and convey his RAGS TO RICHES story quite convincingly, capturing his voice while telling about his rise and fall (<-- the IRS and disco got him) and his come back at the time This book is so well written that I've actually reread it SEVERAL times since it initially came out in the mid '80s. - - Though it is a bit ironical that JBs life would get a bit more "complicated" after it was written (the drugs, run-ins with the law, death of his wife etc.) it is clear that Brown & Tucker have presented to the world a book that's engrossing and definitely a keeper... It will bring a whole new meaning to the music !

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.