What makes Get Up Sex Machine by James Brown notable?

This album is significant for its explosive title track, which became a defining anthem for funk music and influenced countless artists across genres. It also showcased Brown's innovative live performance style, leading to critical acclaim and commercial success. By 1970, James Brown was already a towering figure in music, known as the 'Godfather of Soul.' 'Get Up Sex Machine' followed his influential 1969 album 'The Popcorn,' further establishing him as a pioneer of funk and solidifying his impact on popular music's evolution.

How many songs are on Get Up Sex Machine?

Get Up Sex Machine has 4 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

Get Up Sex Machine

James Brown · 1970

18 min · 4 tracks · blues

A relentless groove fuels vibrant brass and rhythmic vocals, capturing the raw energy of funk at its peak.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine (live) — The live version captures the electrifying atmosphere of Brown's performances, highlighting his ability to engage audiences with infectious rhythms and call-and-response elements.
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Think — This track features a powerful blend of soulful melodies and sharp horns, illustrating Brown's mastery in crafting songs that resonate both musically and lyrically.
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I Got You (I Feel Good) — An enduring classic, this song exemplifies Brown's signature sound and has become synonymous with joy and celebration, showcasing his unparalleled vocal style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

This single captures the essence of funk with its infectious grooves and innovative arrangements.

What we noticed

The title track features a call-and-response structure between Brown's vocals and the band, creating an interactive feel.
The live version of the title track showcases extended instrumental solos, emphasizing the improvisational nature of funk.
The brass section maintains a consistent, driving rhythm throughout the tracks, reinforcing the groove.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The title track became a defining anthem for funk, solidifying Brown's influence.
Themes: dancefloor revolution· funky grooves· soulful empowerment
Career context: By 1970, James Brown was already a towering figure in music, known as the 'Godfather of Soul.' 'Get Up Sex Machine' followed his influential 1969 album 'The Popcorn,' further establishing him as a pioneer of funk and solidifying his impact on popular music's evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: Prince· Sly and the Family Stone· Parliament-Funkadelic

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine (live)

Brown shifts from commanding the audience with rhythmic chants to moments of playful improvisation that elevate the crowd's energy.

This dynamic interplay not only showcases Brown's charismatic stage presence but also emphasizes the communal experience of funk music.