James Brown was one of the major figures of 20th-century music. Often called the "Godfather of Soul," his unique style of rhythm and blues fused with jazz and soul evolved into what is still described today as funk music. An energetic stage performer blessed with an extraordinary voice, Brown enjoyed a career that lasted over 50 years, and was performing and recording just a few weeks before his death on December 25, 2006.
Browse the gallery and relive some of the highs and lows of this legendary performer.