James Brown, the “Hardest Working Man In Show Business,” died over Christmas and there’s not much to be said that hasn’t already been written ad nauseum. The Reverend was never a big fan of Brown’s, preferring instead the sweet soul sounds of Otis Redding, Sam Cooke and Wilson Pickett.Brown’s legacy is immense, however, and unavoidable, not only for his string of ‘60s and ‘70s hits like “Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag,” “Cold Sweat” and “The Payback,” but for the avalanche of music that Brown’s groundbreaking sound influenced. Along with Dylan, the Beatles and Elvis, Brown was one of the most important figures in 21st century music. Brown’s definition of funk beget the entire George Clinton and P-Funk axis, which in turn influenced rap and rock through the work of the Beastie Boys, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Prince and many others. A true musical and cultural giant, James Brown defied poverty and racism to achieve fame and fortune on the strength of his talent and ambition. It’s said a lot in obituaries, but in JB’s case, there truly won’t be another one like him anytime soon....