James Brown Plays the Real Thing cover

James Brown Plays the Real Thing

James Brown · 1967

42 min · 8 tracks · blues · funk · soul

A vibrant blend of soul, funk, and jazz underpinned by James Brown's electrifying vocal prowess and rhythmic innovation.

Why listen to this

Best for
steady grooves for dancing inviting sing-along moments uplifting vibe for gatherings
Context
By 1967, James Brown was firmly established as a leading figure in the soul genre, with 'James Brown Plays the Real Thing' serving as his follow-up to the critical success of 'Live at the Apollo'. This album arrived during a period when Brown was transitioning from popular hits into more experimental sounds that showcased his dynamic performance style and deep musical roots.
If you like
blues, funk, soul

James Brown Plays the Real Thing is an album by James Brown, released in 1967. A vibrant blend of soul, funk, and jazz underpinned by James Brown's electrifying vocal prowess and rhythmic innovation. The album is notable for its bold reinterpretations of contemporary hits, which helped further cement Brown's influence on the funk genre. Tracks like 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy' gained significant airplay and showcased his ability to fuse different musical styles, setting the stage for future artists to explore similar genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does James Brown Plays the Real Thing sound like?

A vibrant blend of soul, funk, and jazz underpinned by James Brown's electrifying vocal prowess and rhythmic innovation. Rooted in blues and funk.

What makes James Brown Plays the Real Thing by James Brown notable?

The album is notable for its bold reinterpretations of contemporary hits, which helped further cement Brown's influence on the funk genre. Tracks like 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy' gained significant airplay and showcased his ability to fuse different musical styles, setting the stage for future artists to explore similar genres. By 1967, James Brown was firmly established as a leading figure in the soul genre, with 'James Brown Plays the Real Thing' serving as his follow-up to the critical success of 'Live at the Apollo'. This album arrived during a period when Brown was transitioning from popular hits into more experimental sounds that showcased his dynamic performance style and deep musical roots.

Who is James Brown Plays the Real Thing for?

James Brown Plays the Real Thing works well if you're into steady grooves for dancing, inviting sing-along moments and uplifting vibe for gatherings.

How many songs are on James Brown Plays the Real Thing?

James Brown Plays the Real Thing has 8 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Tracklist

8 tracks·42:04

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Jimmy Jack 5:26
  • 2 What Do You Like 7:24
  • 3 Peewee’s Groove in “D” 5:10
  • 4 Bernadette 3:05
  • 5 Mercy, Mercy, Mercy Standout 5:01
  • 6 I Never Loved a Man the Way I Loved You Standout 4:35
  • 7 Funky Broadway Standout 5:43
  • 8 “D” Thing 5:40

Release Date

January 1, 1967

Genre

blues, funk, soul

More albums in blues

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

42 min 4 sec