In Memoriam: The Best Pictures Of James Brown Through The Years

Born May 3rd, 1933, James Joseph Brown was destined for greatness. His gorgeous and invigorating music can be recognized from all over the world. James had countless songs hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was inducted in the Rhythm & Blues, Rock and Roll, and Songwriters Hall of Fame. He even continued to write and perform all the way until his death at age 73 on Christmas day of 2006.

What a man.

James Brown had his first song hit the #1 spot in the R&B chart for his 1958 "Try Me" when he first began to pursue his solo career. By the time he reached the 60's he had quickly become a well-known name in music and had his unique sound defined as "true funk".

By the '70s James had earned himself the title of "Soul Brother #1" earning his first Grammer for the song "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag." He had also released his most well-known song "I Got You (I Feel Good)". His group James Brown and the Famous Flames even outshined the Rolling Stones during a televised concert for their seamless choreography and Brown's mind-blowing energetic dance moves!

King of the stage, James Brown had such booming performances that he was often asked to be in television and film including the 1980's smash hit The Blues Brothers. He was perfect for the musical film's conclusion and even returned in the 2000's sequel!

James had some less successful years losing many of his famous band members like Bootsy Collings and having financial troubles for some time, but as the king he truly is he worked hard and continued to perform and create music even through his darker times.

James Brown began his rise from the ashed by working with modern artists who idolized him like MC Hammer and Big Daddy Kane. Both said James brought a whole new energetic feel to the stage and forced the Hip Hop community to adjust their stage presence.His hit album Living in America spurred an incredible tour and he was even asked to perform at the World Cup Draw in Las Vegas!

1997 was a big year for James. He not only performed the Super Bowl Halftime show but he also received his own Hollywood Walk Of Fame Star!

Michael Jackson and James Brown were close friends and performed often together. Michael has even said James is hit "ultimate Idol". Michael's incredible performing and dancing talent and funky songs were heavily influenced by James Brown.

Man, oh man, James sure did have an incredible voice. In every performance for his entire life, he truly put in his all.

James Brown and countless other artists like Justin Timberlake held a benefit concert for the hundreds of thousands of victims of the terrible 2004 tsunami.