Today in 1933, James Brown was born. Nicknamed "The Godfather of Soul", Brown is said to be the creator of funk music and an instrumental force with a successful career across six decades.

He recorded 16 singles that reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B charts, and he also holds the record for the most singles listed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart which did not reach No. 1.

So for today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear that either sample or reference James Brown?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive. Or, when you register for a Minnesota Public Radio account, you can send requests via Alexa, too Just say "Alexa, ask The Current to play Song by Artist" e.g. "Alexa, ask The Current to play Left of the Dial by The Replacements."

Songs played

Massive Attack - Protection
Parliament - Chocolate City
De La Soul - Stakes Is High
Beastie Boys - Shadrach
En Vogue - My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It)
James Brown - Mother Popcorn, Pt. 1
Arthur Conley - Sweet Soul Music