James Brown (born James Joseph Brown, Jr. on May 3, 1933 in Barnwell, South Carolina) is an entertainer who is recognized as one of the most influential figures in 20th century music. As a prolific singer, songwriter, bandleader and record producer, Brown was a seminal force in the evolution of gospel and rhythm and blues into soul and funk. He has also left his mark on numerous other musical genres, including rock, jazz, reggae, disco, dance and electronic music, and, most famously, hip-hop music.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Brown