Say It Loud!: The Life of James Brown, Soul Brother No. 1 Paperback - 2014

From the rear cover

A Moving Tribute To An Icon Of American MusicPaying homage to his longtime friend James Brown and his storied career, Don "Ramblin'" Rhodes tells the fascinating story of the legendary singer's life and times. From the evolution of Brown's fiery, uniquely rhythmic musical style to his social activism, world travels, run-ins with the law, and four marriages, Rhodes provides a sensitive but candid look at the man behind such classics as "I Got You," "Please, Please, Please," "Sex Machine," and "Say It Loud--I'm Black and I'm Proud." Complemented by never-before-published photos, as well as numerous anecdotes and details of Brown's life both on and off stage, Say It Loud! will be treasured by music fans of all ages. An excerpt from Say It Loud!He was undoubtedly often defiant, frequently arrogant, and never ever afraid to take on anyone who had done him wrong--whether powerful IRS agents, white record company owners and promoters who tried to cheat him, trusted friends who broke his heart, or even police who arrested him deservedly sometimes. That is exactly why people the world over loved James Brown--not only because of his enormous musical contributions but also because he was a person who was not about to let anyone put him down or put him "in his place." He was the one who had the guts to proclaim, "Say it loud, I'm black and I'm proud". . . More than anything else, I will miss his smile, and his infectious laughter that made you feel good even more than he felt good.