James Brown - James Brown: Greatest Hits Album

James Brown's Greatest Hits album barely scratches the surface of the hardest working man in show business's prodigious output, but it is a great initiation to the musical genius who laid the groundwork for modern funk. This collection focuses on Brown's best-known tunes, including such brilliant soul offerings as "I Feel Good," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," and "Cold Sweat." Even if you're not a self-proclaimed hardcore funkmeister or soul junkie such as me, you couldn't say that you know anything about popular American music, even rock music, without listening to this collection. And if you happen to be one of those bizarre people who have never heard Brown, this is a great place to start.