The Singles, Volume Two: 1960–1963
James Brown · 2007
106 min · 39 tracks · blues
A vibrant collection of early soul and rhythm & blues, showcasing James Brown's dynamic vocals and energetic arrangements.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Bells Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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I Don't Mind — This track exemplifies Brown's smooth vocal delivery paired with a catchy beat, encapsulating the essence of early soul music.
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Night Train — As one of Brown's most celebrated songs, it showcases his infectious energy and has become synonymous with his live performances.
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Bewildered — The song's emotional depth combined with its rhythmic drive reflects Brown's ability to convey powerful feelings through music.
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Mashed Potatoes U.S.A. — This track captures the playful spirit of the early '60s dance craze while also demonstrating Brown's innovative approach to rhythm and groove.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady groove for social gatherings
- short bursts of rhythmic energy
- vibrant collection for upbeat moods
- nostalgic vibes for classic fans
- danceable tracks for party atmosphere
Maybe skip if you
- prefer long immersive albums
- seek deep emotional narratives
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Captures formative years that established Brown's reputation in soul music.
- Themes
- soulful transitions· Rhythm and Blues evolution· gospel-infused emotion
- Career context
- Released in 2007, this compilation captures James Brown's formative years between 1960 and 1963, a period that solidified his reputation as a leading figure in soul music. At this time, Brown was transitioning from a rising star to a cultural icon, establishing his signature sound that would influence countless genres.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Prince· Sly and the Family Stone· Parliament-Funkadelic
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 The Bells Start here 2:58
- 2 And I Do Just What I Want 2:26
- 3 Hold It 2:11
- 4 The Scratch 1:47
- 5 Bewildered 2:26
- 6 If You Want Me 2:25
- 7 Suds 2:21
- 8 Sticky 2:45
- 9 I Don’t Mind 2:46
- 10 Love Don’t Love Nobody 2:08
- 11 Cross Firing 2:24
- 12 Night Flying 2:17
- 13 Baby, You’re Right 3:04
- 14 I’ll Never, Never Let You Go 2:21
- 15 I Love You, Yes I Do 2:48
- 16 Just You and Me, Darling 2:48
- 17 Lost Someone 3:07
- 18 Night Train 3:32
- 19 Why Does Everything Happen to Me 2:11
- 20 Bewildered (demo) 2:53
Disc 2
- 1 Shout and Shimmy 2:51
- 2 Come Over Here 2:46
- 3 Mashed Potatoes U.S.A. 2:54
- 4 You Don’t Have to Go 2:49
- 6 (Can You) Feel It, Part 2 2:38
- 7 Three Hearts in a Tangle 2:54
- 8 I’ve Got Money 2:32
- 9 Like a Baby 2:54
- 10 Every Beat of My Heart 3:45
- 11 Prisoner of Love 2:28
- 12 Choo‐Choo 2:54
- 13 These Foolish Things 2:55
- 14 (Can You) Feel It, Part 1 2:58
- 15 Devil’s Den, Part 1 2:39
- 16 Devil’s Den, Part 2 2:33
- 17 Signed, Sealed and Delivered 2:51
- 18 Waiting in Vain 2:47
- 19 Oh Baby Don’t You Weep, Part 1 2:57
- 20 Oh Baby Don’t You Weep, Part 2 3:02
What to play next
The Singles, Volume Three: 1964–1965
2007
Continuing the singles journey, this album offers more of Brown's energetic style.
The Singles, Volume One: The Federal Years: 1956–1960
2006
Sets the stage for understanding Brown's evolution leading into the vibrant sounds of the second volume.
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
Shares a deep emotional resonance and soulful vocal delivery, reflecting a similar era and evolution.
Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963
Sam Cooke
Captures vibrant live energy and gospel-infused soul that parallels Brown’s rhythmic grooves.
Shout!
The Isley Brothers
Combines doo-wop and early funk elements with rich harmonies, echoing the rhythmic transition of the early '60s.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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