Did He Feel Good?: James Brown’s epic life and career (Review of New Bio)

City Journal ^ | 6/8/2012 | Ian Penman

[re_nortex]

I'll add that I never cared much for the style of music performed by James Brown. My tastes are more traditional along the lines of Roger Whittaker, Vaughn Monroe, Karen Carpenter and traditional Country as well as Southern Gospel.

I also was disgusted by James Brown's antics on the Grand Ole Opry back in the 1970's. He showed no respect whatsoever for that genuine American institution, performing his usual set of rhythm and blues at that venue. He was met with, at best, muted applause and some boos. Of course, Porter Wagoner gets the blame for having the audacity of inviting someone not at all appropriate for the Opry.

So, I'm really not a James Brown fan and am somewhat cynical at any attempts to paint him in a favorable light. Tastes vary, of course, and I fully understand that there are those who like his music and performing style.

[JRios1968]

[mojito]

I'm a huge fan of traditional country (like old George Jones and yes, Porter Wagoner), but I also enjoy Brown's music and other southern soul a great deal.

It is true that Brown's personal life spun out of control at an age when most men have gained some perspective and have settled down, and in the end came to represent many of the things that he had preached against earlier in his career. That is his tragedy.

Still, despite his many flaws as a man, in my book he's a great and unique American artist.