Brown, James (1933–2006)

US rhythm-and-blues and soul singer, songwriter, and producer. He was a pioneer of funk. Staccato horn arrangements and shouted vocals characterize his hits, which include ‘Please, Please, Please’ (1956), ‘Papa's Got a Brand New Bag’ (1965), ‘Say It Loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud’ (1968), ‘Sex Machine’ (1975), and ‘Living In America’ (1995). Among Brown's best-loved records is the album Live at the Apollo (1963), an enduring testament to the concert that launched him to celebrity.

Brown's 1968 television appearance appealing for calm succeeded in restraining race riots in US cities. Known as the ‘Godfather of Soul’, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and was honoured as ‘one of the most influential musicians of the past 50 years’ by the Kennedy Center in 2003.

Brown had several run-ins with the law – he was arrested several times on drug possession and domestic violence charges during the 1980s and 90s.

Brown, James (1791–1877)

Irish-born US banker who emigrated to Baltimore, Maryland, in 1802. In 1825 he established the New York City branch of the family firm, Brown Brothers & Company. He guided the banking house through various financial crises and the US Civil War.

He was the son of Alexander Brown. He gave generously to local institutions and was one of the founders of the Presbyterian Hospital in New York.

The mayor of New York City ordered all flags on public buildings to fly at half-mast on his death.