James Brown Popular Songs Ranking [2025]

Funky DrummerJames Brown8rank/position

Funky Drummer (Pt. 1 & 2)

It’s no exaggeration to say the history of hip-hop began with this drum! This funk number by the legendary American artist James Brown is etched into music history.

Released in March 1970, it’s famous for the improvised drum break that emerged during a session after the instruction to “let the drummer play.” Even without lyrics, you can feel the heat of the moment and the steadily rising groove.

This beat was later sampled by countless artists—such as Public Enemy and N.

W.

A.

—and helped lay the foundation of hip-hop.

Many of you may also recognize this rhythm from the theme of the animated series The Powerpuff Girls.

Perfect for anyone who wants to trace breakbeats back to their source! Surrender yourself to the beat that changed history.

Get Up Offa That ThingJames Brown9rank/position

James Brown – Get Up Offa That Thing

A funk track released in 1976 by American singer-songwriter James Brown.

It reached No.

4 on the U.

S.

charts.

The track has been used widely across media, including in the film Sister Act 2 and in Wal-Mart commercials.

Give It Up Or Turnit A LooseJames Brown10rank/position

Give It Up Or Turnit A Loose

James Brown, the legendary American singer-songwriter known by the nickname “Mr.

Dynamite,” was an artist who remained active from the 1950s through the 2000s.

His celebrated track “Give It Up or Turnit a Loose,” released in 1986, features the soulful vocals and groovy backing typical of 1980s funk, resulting in an unforgettable melody.

A staple in breakdancing—and even used at the Paris 2024 Olympics—this classic is a must-listen.

I Got You ( I Feel Good )James Brown11rank/position

James Brown – I Got You (I Feel Good) (Visualizer)

In the commercial for The Peel, said to be made using lemon peels, its appeal is presented to beer lovers.

The ad shows only image cuts of lemon peel, shots of the cast drinking The Peel as if it tastes great, and the number of units sold.

It never explicitly describes the flavor, but the message that it’s “loved by beer aficionados” invites us to imagine it has no sweetness and a compelling, addictive bitterness.

By not revealing everything, it cleverly conveys the product’s allure.

The background music is James Brown’s signature song “I Got You (I Feel Good),” making it clear the ad is aimed at adults.

Released in 1965, the track is renowned for its funky shouts and an irresistible groove that makes you want to move.

If You Don’t Give A Dogone About ItJames Brown12rank/position

If You Don’t Give A Dogone About It

James Brown is an artist who revolutionized funk and was ranked 7th on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.

He was also one of the artists who had a strong influence on Michael Jackson.

How about creating a robot dance routine using a track by this master? I think this song would pair well with choreography that incorporates lots of steps.

You might not usually associate step-heavy moves with robot dance, but the beauty of dance is that anything goes—so give it a try!

Living in AmericaJames Brown13rank/position

James Brown – Living in America

JB, aka James Brown—nicknamed “Mr.

Dynamite.” He’s a legend who represents soul and funk.

In both fashion and looks, and with his sing-and-dance performances, he’s the ultimate entertainer.

His track “Living in America” is the kind of high-energy song that makes you want to shout “Ah!” and “Ugh!” just by listening.

It’s a dangerously catchy ringtone that’ll have you breaking into steps every time someone calls.

Mother PopcornJames Brown14rank/position

Mother Popcorn – James Brown

James Brown, an American soul singer whose on-stage performances are striking.

This is a track with a richly seasoned vocal that you never get tired of listening to.

The song is included on the album ‘It’s a Mother,’ released in 1969.