This collector’s LP edition includes a number of James Brown’s most iconic songs from his early career with The Famous Flames, when he gained fame as »Mr. Dynamite «. These sides were originally recorded for the Federal and King labels, between 1956 and 1962. Highlights include early hits like “Please, Please, Please”, “Think”, “Try Me”, “Shout and Shimmy”, “Night Train”, “I Want You So Bad,” and “I’ll Go Crazy,” to name a few. These magnificent numbers provide an opportunity to peek in on the still-growing Brown and hear him paying homage to his early influences. R&B balladry, doo wop, gospel and blues are all evident throughout this collection.
Brown’s early repertoire marks one of the most important building blocks of the soul and funk idioms. All of these sensational recordings are a good starting place to explore Brown’s legendary discography.