This week marks what would have been James Brown’s 78th birthday. While it’s been six years since James Brown passed away, his legacy is seen in virtually every drop of today’s popular music. Well into his later years, the Godfather of Soul captivated crowds with his unapologetic vision, charisma, pioneering dance moves — and an occasional dose of drama. Here’s some archival dance lesson footage with Brown doing everything from the funky chicken to the robot. Enjoy.
We’re ending the day as often as possible by celebrating love. We welcome your ideas for posts. Send suggestions to submissions@colorlines.com, and be sure to put Celebrate Love in the subject line. You can send links to videos, graphics, photos, quotes, whatever. Or just chime in to the comments below and we’ll find you. Be sure to let us know you’ve got the rights to share any media you send.
To see other Love posts visit our Celebrate Love page.