James Brown

Godfather of Soul

Modern influential 155 sayings

Sayings by James Brown

Sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind.

1970s — Philosophical statement
Controversial Unverifiable

Sex is a beautiful thing if it's done right.

1970s — Interview on relationships
Controversial Unverifiable

I was born dead.

1986 — On his difficult childhood
Controversial Unverifiable

You can't fake this music. You can't fake the feeling.

1970s — On authenticity in music
Controversial Unverifiable

I'm not afraid to die. I'm afraid of not living.

1980s — Philosophical statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't want to be remembered. I want to be unforgettable.

1990s — On his legacy
Controversial Unverifiable

The only thing that can stop me is me.

1970s — On his determination
Controversial Unverifiable

I'm not a politician. I'm a musician. But I know what's right.

1960s — On social issues
Controversial Unverifiable

The worse it gets, the harder I try.

1970s — Philosophical statement
Controversial Unverifiable

You can't fake the funk.

1970s — On musical authenticity
Controversial Unverifiable

I'm not conceited. I'm convinced.

1980s — On self-confidence
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't care about color. I care about the music.

1970s — On racial unity through music
Controversial Unverifiable

If you don't like what I'm doing, you don't have to listen.

1960s — To critics
Controversial Unverifiable

The most important thing is to be true to yourself.

1980s — Advice to young people
Controversial Unverifiable

I'm not here to make friends. I'm here to make music.

1970s — On his professional relationships
Controversial Unverifiable