born May 3, 1933, Barnwell, S.C., U.S.
U.S. singer and songwriter.
Growing up in Georgia during the Depression, Brown first sang and danced on street corners for money. He later formed a trio, appearing at small clubs throughout the South. He gradually evolved a highly personal style, combining blues and gospel music elements with his own emotionally charged and highly rhythmic delivery, accented by a strong sense of showmanship. His first hit, "Please, Please, Please" (1956), was followed by other million-selling singles, including "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag"; his style, marked by strong dance-oriented rhythms and heavy syncopation, became known as funk. His checkered personal life was highlighted in 1988 when he received a three-year jail sentence on a variety of charges.