James Brown: Say It Loud
In honor of his memory on what would be his 92nd birthday this Saturday, we raise a toast to one of our spiritual founders, James Brown. Raised in the city, James Brown proudly called Augusta his hometown and brought it international recognition through his success as the “Godfather of Soul.” His influence is celebrated through landmarks like the James Brown Arena and a statue on Broad Street looking down The Commons. Mr. Brown gave back generously, especially to underprivileged youth, with annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaways and Christmas toy drives, and he used his platform to promote civil rights and unity, particularly during times of social unrest. His legacy continues through events like the James Brown Birthday Bash, which draw tourists, support local businesses, and reinforce his deep cultural imprint on our city.
We Start on the Downbeat: BAM!
Mr. Brown impacted the lives of just about anyone he came in contact with, leaving many with memorable stories. Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones recalling getting lessons on dancing and captivating the audience from James is a personal favorite of mine. Poet and songwriter Tom Waits described seeing JB's live performance feeling "like putting a finger in a light socket...It was really like seeing mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Christmas.” James Brown was a man of the people in his hometown, and there are countless local stories of interactions with him. You could find James on Broad Street sitting the front window of 94.7FM disc jockeying and giving a friendly wave, or hustling the pool table in the back of SoulBar. You might find him dressed to the nines next to you at the gas pump filling up his emerald green Jaguar, or dropping off his still sweat soaked stage attire at the Whitehouse Cleaners. James was a generous man opening up his home to Augustans at Christmas to view his decorations, and tipping servers at restaurants a $100 bill to hear their best imitation of his trademark scream. Yours truly, while in high school, had the great fortune to hear him and his band practice at the Bell Auditorium before going out on one of their final tours.
Mr. Brown was no funky chicken when it came to marketing and branding himself. He created his own distinct identity as “The Godfather of Soul." His over the top and outlandish jumpsuits and cape were instantly recognizable, and he maintained a consistent high energy in everything he did on and off stage. His catch phrases “Hit Me!”, “Good God!”, and “Get Up!” are akin to McDonald's “I’m lovin’ it”, or Nike’s “Just do it”. His mantra was “Open up the door, I’ll get it myself”, a belief in self-reliance, empowerment, inspiring movement (not only on the dance floor), and the entrepreneurial spirit behind building a powerful brand. Mr. Brown once said “the one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing.”
We want Showpony to be the stage for your brand to dance on for your audience. “Get up off of that thing” and book an appointment with the Ponies today!
