James Brown proved that history played a role in popular music.
Known as the creator of funk, the late Brown brought African history into his work and influenced modern music.
Carolina Performing Arts is hosting a tribute to the historic Brown tonight, led by saxophonist and composer Pee Wee Ellis, who was a part of Brown’s band in the 1960s.
For the touring event “Still Black, Still Proud,” Ellis will be joined by Vusi Mahlasela, Cheikh Lo and Maceo Parker, who played the saxophone with Brown.
Ellen James, marketing manager for the executive office for the arts, said audience members not of Brown’s generation will recognize phrases and rhythms in his songs from current music.
“I don’t think they need a history lesson to make the connection,” James said.
Fatimah Jackson, a UNC anthropology professor who lived in Africa during the 1970s, said history played a significant role in Brown’s music.
“James Brown really tapped into African-American rhythms that had their roots in Africa,” she said.
She said Brown’s lyrics symbolized the struggles of not only Africans in the late ’70s, but of all humankind.