People line up as far back as West 129th Street, patiently waiting online for up to five hours to enter the famed Apollo Theater to pay their respects to Soul Brother James Brown. All around the 'hood, fans hang out, listening to boom boxes blaring "Please, Please, Please," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," and other dancin' good hits. Others dance on the sidewalk, re-enacting some of JB's famous footwork. Everyone talks about their favorite JB concert, song, or moment, and the vibe is respectful, friendly, and celebratory. I think back to the first time I heard a JB tune, on a mix tape a friend gave me. I became an instant fan. My one lament is I never got to witness the Man live in concert.

Please click on images to enlarge and view....