"The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing."
James Brown
Singer, Musician
James Brown was a groundbreaking musician known as the 'Godfather of Soul,' whose work transformed music and culture, particularly in the realm of African American identity.
- Born
- May 3, 1933
- Died
- December 25, 2006
- Quotes
- 73
- Rank
- #2262
About James Brown
James Brown — Life and Legacy
James Brown, known as the 'Godfather of Soul,' was a pivotal figure in music history, renowned for his dynamic performances and profound influence on genres like funk and R&B. His distinctive style and powerful voice not only reshaped the music landscape but also served as a platform for social change. Brown's quotes often reflect his deep understanding of freedom and resilience, as seen in his famous declaration, 'I’m black and I’m proud,' which became an anthem for the civil rights movement. This statement encapsulates his commitment to dignity and empowerment, challenging societal norms and inspiring generations. Brown's worldview was rooted in the belief that self-respect and determination could overcome adversity. His quote, 'I don't want nobody to give me nothing, open up the door, I'll get it myself,' illustrates his fierce independence and work ethic, emphasizing the need for personal agency in the pursuit of success. Through his music and words, he encouraged listeners to rise above their circumstances, as highlighted in his energetic call to action, 'Get up offa that thing.' Today, James Brown's quotes continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of resilience and pride in one's identity. His legacy endures not only through his music but also through the powerful messages embedded in his words, which inspire ongoing conversations about race, empowerment, and self-determination.
Quote collection
James Brown quotes (page 1 of 4)
73 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"Don't terrorize. Organize. Don't burn. Give kids a chance to learn . . . The real answer to race problems in this country is education. Not burning and killing. Be ready. Be qualified. Own something. Be somebody. That's Black Power."
"Hair is the first thing. And teeth the second. Hair and teeth. A man got those two things he's got it all."
"I Don’t Want Nobody to Give Me Nothing (Open Up the Door, I'll Get It Myself)"
"I named my new son James Joseph Brown II. I think he's going to be a lot better than I was."
"I only got a seventh-grade education, but I have a doctorate in funk, and I like to put that to good use"
"Sometimes you struggle so hard to feed your family one way, you forget to feed them the other way, with spiritual nourishment. Everybody needs that."
"My music wasn't written by Mozart, Beethoven, Bach or Schubert. It's written by God and me. They go "a one and a two and up." We start on the downbeat. Bam! And that's where we got them."
"I've got soul and I'm super bad."
"I taught them everything they know, but not everything I know."
"You got to use what you got to get just what you want."
"Music, it requires more than brawn. It requires a lot of heart. You gotta put love in there."
"Got ants in my pants and I need to dance, so big fine mama, come give me a chance."
"I want to say to you: Help yourself, so you can help someone else."
"As I always said, if people wanted to know who James Brown is, all they have to do is listen to my music."
"Tell the politicians and the hustlers: live and let live."
"Money won't change you, but time will take you out."
"I just thank God for all of the blessings."
"When I'm on stage, I'm trying to do one thing: bring people joy."
"Get on up, stay on the scene, get on up, like a sex machine."