May 3rd marks what would have been soul singer James Brown’s 83rd birthday. There’s a reason people referred to Brown as the “Godfather of Soul”; his voice was truly iconic. Through his sexy persona and sultry stage presence, James Brown was on a level all his own when it came to performing. Backed by the illustrious J.B.’s throughout most of his career, Brown excelled with hits like “Cold Sweat,” “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag”, “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World.”
There’s no denying the raw talent and energy that Brown exuded with each performance. In that spirit, we wanted to share live footage of a great James Brown show from 1968. The show came just one day after Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, and Brown’s performance was credited for helping to keep the peace in Boston. The live broadcast of this show literally helped put a stop to potential riots in the charged city. His music was just that powerful.
Enjoy some glorious James Brown footage and help us wish the Godfather a happy 83rd!
Setlist: James Brown at the Boston Garden, Boston, MA – 4/5/68
“That’s Life”
“Kansas City
Medley: “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World”/”Lost Someone”/”Bewildered”
“Get It Together”
“There Was a Time”
“I Got the Feelin'”
“Try Me”
Medley: “Cold Sweat”/”Ride the Pony”/”Cold Sweat”
“I Got You (I Feel Good)”
“Please, Please, Please”
“I Can’t Stand Myself (When You Touch Me)
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