In a rare and deeply personal interview, James Brown reflects on decades of influence, evolution, and enduring passion for music, politics, and performance. Speaking candidly about everything from his hit “Living in America” to meeting the Pope, Brown gives readers a glimpse into the mind of a true icon.
On Touring and Global Appeal
James Brown: “We just started the tour last night. It’s technically our first date, though we’ve been on the road for about two months now. It’s been an incredible week—so many places, so many people. We’ve been through Greece, Germany, and all over Europe. It’s part of a world tour.”
Despite his longevity, Brown sees his audience continuously evolving.
“I get a lot of young faces these days. Punk rock really opened up a new wave. They’re drawn to the costumes, the dance, the energy—our whole style. Songs like ‘Sex Machine’ and ‘It’s a Man’s World’ still hit, and now we’ve added ‘Living in America’ into the mix.”
Collaboration with Dan Hartman and Rocky IV
One of the most pivotal moments in his recent career came through his collaboration with producer Dan Hartman on the track “Living in America.”
“Dan’s a fan. He came in with the idea, and Stallone wanted me for Rocky IV. I added my touch—the screams, the energy, the soul. That’s the James Brown sound. It’s not just performance, it’s a feeling. That song fit me, fit the message, fit the movie.”
The Message Behind the Music
Brown is known not just for infectious rhythms, but for songs with purpose.
“Back in the ’60s, there was unrest. So I made songs like ‘Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud’ and ‘Don’t Be a Dropout.’ It was about giving people pride. If you don’t feel proud, you don’t feel motivated. Music gave us that pride.”
His recent collaborations with rap and hip-hop artists continue that mission.
“They’re borrowing from what we did in the ’60s. Rap is an evolution of the style we started. It’s great to see that torch being carried forward—especially when it comes with a message.”
Spirituality and Politics
Brown doesn’t shy away from spirituality and its impact on his work.
“God is everything to me. I got my energy, my spirit, from God. I met the Pope a year ago. That’s not something many entertainers get to do. But for me, it’s all connected—spirit, music, people.”
When asked if music and politics should mix, his answer is clear:
“They must. Music grabs attention. Once you have that, you can say something that matters.”
Reflecting on a Legendary Career
James Brown recorded his first major hit, “Please, Please, Please,” in 1956.
“The kids today hear it like it’s new. That’s what’s amazing. These records don’t age—they come back around. Even ‘Sex Machine’ could be released today and feel brand new.”
His motivation wasn’t fame—it was survival.
“I grew up poor. At one point, we had 19 people in a house paying $5 rent we couldn’t afford. I started tap dancing for soldiers, made $12, and paid two months’ rent. That’s where music began for me: as a way to live.”
Beyond the Music: Acting, Business, and Legacy
Brown has acted in films like The Blues Brothers and is now working on a film about his life.
“I’ll be doing the soundtrack and some acting. I’m hoping my wife will play a part too. It’s another way of telling our story.”
When he’s not on stage or recording, Brown is a businessman.
“We do real estate, run businesses. But I still do about 200 shows a year—down from 300, but I love it. The energy from the crowd is what keeps me going.”
A Career Without an End
As for the future?
“This career doesn’t end. When you do something that touches people, it becomes a legacy. That’s what I want—to make people happy. I hope more entertainers get the chance to do what I’ve done. There’s room for everyone.”
Final Words from the Godfather of Soul:
“Music creates jobs, brings joy, builds communities. A little record can start a million things. That’s the power of what we do—and that’s why I keep doing it.”
[via James Brown: The Raw & Uncut Interview – 1987 TheBestOfVoxPop]
Categories: Interviews, James Brown
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