This is the show, this is the kid, the man of the hour, Mr. Dynamite, Mr. "Poppa’s Got a Brand New Bag," Mr. "Night Train"
Originally published November 25, 1965
“James Brown, probably the most influential black musician of all time, will turn 56 in prison — and then 57 and perhaps 58 as well”
Originally published February 21, 1989
Harlem Gangsters Raise a Genius
Originally published September 1, 1988
“What seems to be about to happen is what LeRoi Jones called Unity Music in 1966. It will include the entire range of black music, maybe in one long performance, but pivoting on the drums.”
Originally published April 16, 1979
Chandler has taken advantage of disco’s democratic playlist — which has given everyone from Cher to Cab Calloway another shot at the charts — but his second taste of success is tinged with bitterness.
Originally published April 16, 1979
Through his gospel classics like “Peace Be Still,” Cleveland retells a biblical love story for the plain purpose of reconciling people to God and one another.
Originally published April 16, 1979
"Whether it's called rock, soul, funk, blues, salsa, gospel, jazz, or reggae, it's all about the same thing. Black music."
Originally published April 18, 1979