Brown had been hospitalized with pneumonia - but his agent, Frank Copsidas of Intrigue Music, told the AP that Brown had told close friends he was planning to recover and perform live on New Year's Eve. "He said, I'm going to be there. I'm the hardest-working man in show business," said Copsidas.
VIBE's Tribute coverage to the late, great James Brown includes:
- A Slideshow
- A Video Tribute site featuring classic James Brown performances from the Ed Sullivan Show, with Aretha, and more - check it out!
VIBE has also created a special James Brown playlist - featuring some of the Godfather's greatest jams:
You can also comment on the passing of James Brown on our comment boards:
tell us YOUR opinion of what the Godfather's legacy will be.
Today, Snoop Dogg lamented the passing of a superstar. "I am hurt. That's my godfather, my soul inspiration, the hardest working man in show business of all time. He'll be missed, but his music and his legacy will live on through me, in every way you can imagine. Soul brother No. 1 ... we miss you James Brown."
"He was an innovator, he was an emancipator, he was an originator. Rap music, all that stuff came from James Brown," said Little Richard.
"I had the opportunity to meet him and present an award to him this year with Al Shaprton , Jesse Jackson and others," said Nas via a statement. "I spoke in front of hundreds in his honor. I looked directly at him. He smiled while I told him how I used his music with mine and how much he's done for us and how I love him. I'm lucky to have had that moment, shook his hand. He was pure greatness."
"James Brown was the first solo singer that I loved as a kid. He was not only the Godfather of Soul, but the Godfather of Funk and Rap," said Ice Cube. "Music will never be the same..."
President George W. Bush also released a statement honoring Brown: "An American original, his fans came from all walks of life and backgrounds. James Brown's family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers this Christmas."
Brown won a Grammy for lifetime achievement in 1992, as well as Grammys in 1965 ("Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" (best R&B recording)) and 1987 "Living In America" (best R&B vocal performance, male.)) His appearance as a crazed preacher in the comedy classic, "The Blues Brothers," is widely recalled as a cinematic tour de force.
Memorial plans are, as yet, incomplete. Brown is survived by his fourth wife, Tomi Raye Hynie, and four children — two daughters and sons Daryl and James Brown III. James Brown was 73 years old.
Please check back with VIBE.com throughout the day and week for more on the passing of a music legend.
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