album · April 1, 1970

Soul on Top

James Brown

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VerveSee this day

soulfunkrhythm and blues

This 1970 collection gathers some of Brown's earliest recordings for the Verve label, showcasing his transition from the polished R&B of his earlier years to the grittier, funk-driven sound that would define his career.

• The album was released on April 1, 1970, by Verve Records.
• It features songs recorded between 1961 and 1963, prior to Brown's move to King Records.
• This collection captures James Brown during a period of transition in his musical style.

James Brown was an American singer, songwriter, bandleader, and producer, best known as the progenitor of funk music and a major figure of 20th-century popular music. In 1970, he was at a commercial and creative peak, having recently redefined his sound and re-established his career with "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "Cold Sweat."