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Celebrating King Records With Stories Of The Godfather Of Soul, James Brown

Around Cincinnati celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Cincinnati's legendary record label King Records during September with two programs looking at James Brown Productions – conversations with and stories from those who worked with the Godfather of Soul during his King Records days.

James Brown Productions, Part 1

Brian Powers, local music historian and King Records expert, talks with several individuals who worked with James Brown. David Matthews, who was James Brown’s music arranger for five years, also shares stories about working with Bootsy and Catfish Collins. Alan Leeds was James Browns’ publicity director first and then transitioned to tour manager. He shares great insights into what it was like working for James Brown Productions. Maestro Carmon DeLeone of the Cincinnati Ballet talks about his friendship with David Matthews and the recording sessions he sat in on. And Chuck Sullivan shares his memories of being a guitarist on a King Records session for Bobby Byrd and playing with Lonnie Mack and Beau Dollar.

James Brown Productions, Part 2

This special features the Sisters of Righteous, Dr. Kay Robinson, and Jimmy Railey & Waddell Falland. Two sisters from the Sisters of Righteous, Geneva L. Kinard Woode & Denise Kennard Crowley, talk with Brian Powers about their careers at King Records as teenagers and backing up numerous King musicians including Hank Ballard. Dr. Kay Robinson shares her thoughts on recording a gospel album for James Brown Productions. Jimmy Railey and Waddell Falland were both members of The Solars, Bobby and the Expressions, and The Famous Flames. Dave Parkinson, saxophonist, and Eddie Setser, guitarist, from The Dapps, also share their memories of working for James Brown Productions.