James brown mother

ByNoelle Talmon

Known as the Godfather of Soul, The Hardest Working Man in Show Business, and Mr. Dynamite, among other names, James Brown was a soul and funk icon.

He wowed audiences with his charismatic and exuberant performances that showed off his athletic prowess and seemingly undying energy, according to AllMusic. Brown was known for tunes such as "Sex Machine," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," "Get Up Offa That Thing," and "I Got You (I Feel Good)."

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While Brown won several Grammys, lifetime achievement awards, and other accolades over the course of his career, he lived a turbulent life, which has been documented by his children, wives, and others who knew him well.

He came from a broken home, got into trouble with the law on numerous occasions, and had a penchant for beating up the women who loved him the most. Yet he was able to pull himself out of poverty and become one of the most famous singers in the world.

Read more about the untold truth of James Brown