James Brown – Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag – 1965

About The Song

“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is a landmark song by the legendary American musician James Brown, released in 1965. It is a pivotal track in the evolution of music, particularly in the development of funk, and showcases Brown’s innovative approach to rhythm and performance.

Five facts about “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag”:

1. Innovative Funk: “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is often regarded as one of the first songs to feature the distinctive rhythmic elements that would later define funk music. James Brown’s tight, syncopated rhythms and emphasis on the “one” laid the foundation for the funk genre.
2. Live Recording: The song was recorded live in the studio, capturing the energy and spontaneity of James Brown’s dynamic stage performances. This approach contributed to the raw and infectious feel of the track.
3. Shift in Style: The release of “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” marked a significant departure from Brown’s earlier rhythm and blues sound, signaling a shift towards a more innovative and influential style. This transition is often cited as a pivotal moment in the development of funk music.
4. Hit Single: The song became a major hit, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the R&B chart. Its success helped solidify James Brown’s status as a major force in popular music.
5. Grammy Recognition: “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” earned James Brown his first Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording in 1966. The song’s impact on the music industry and its enduring popularity have solidified its place as a classic in the history of American music.

Video

Lyrics

Come here sister, Papa’s in the swing
He ain’t too hip, about that new breed babe
He ain’t no drag
Papa’s got a brand new bag

Come here mama, and dig this crazy scene
He’s not too fancy, but his line is pretty clean
He ain’t no drag
Papa’s got a brand new bag

It’s the Jerk
He’s doing the Fly
Don’t play him cheap ’cause you know he ain’t shy
He’s doing the Monkey, the Mashed Potatoes
Jump back Jack, See you later alligator

Come here sister
Papa’s in the swing
He ain’t too hip now
But I can dig that new breed babe
He ain’t no drag
He’s got a brand new bag

Oh papa, He’s doing the Jerk
Papa, he’s doing the Jerk
He’s doing the twist, just like this
He’s doing the Fly every day and every night
The thing’s, like the Boomerang
Hey, come on
Hey hey, come on
Hey hey, said you uptight, out of sight
Come on, see what you know
Come on, see what you know