Who is the godfather of soul?

James Brown (1933-2006) was known as the Godfather of Soul. He was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, musician, record producer and bandleader known for his music's expansive 50-year career and funky feel. Born in South Carolina, USA, Brown had four wives, nine confirmed children, and four possible additional children.

James Brown had 17 singles reach number one on the US Billboard R&B charts, and as of 2019 holds the record for the most singles listed on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart which did not reach number one. Rolling Stone ranks Brown as number 7 on the list of the 100 greatest artists of all time.