It's Your Thing: Live at Yankee Stadium (1970) – The Lost Soul Concert Film

In the late 1960s, soul music was undergoing a powerful transformation. Gospel roots still ran deep, but funk rhythms and a new sense of artistic independence were beginning to reshape the sound of R&B. 

 

One of the most fascinating visual documents of this moment is the 1970 concert film It's Your Thing: Live at Yankee Stadium.

 

 

 Filmed at Yankee Stadium in New York City on June 21, 1969, the concert was organized by The Isley Brothers to celebrate the success of their hit single “It’s Your Thing.”

The event brought together a diverse lineup of soul, gospel, and pop performers for a massive outdoor concert.

 

Although the movie received a limited theatrical release in 1970, it has never been widely distributed on home video.

As a result, it has become something of a legendary “lost” soul concert film among collectors and historians.

More than fifty years later, the film remains an exciting snapshot of a pivotal moment in Black music history.

 

The Isley Brothers – Hosts and Headliners

The stars of the show are The Isley Brothers, who organized and financed the event themselves. 

At the time, the group had recently left Motown Records and launched their own label, T-Neck Records. Their new single “It’s Your Thing” became a huge hit and a defining early funk anthem.

 In the film, the Isleys deliver a passionate performance filled with crowd participation. Ronald Isley’s soulful vocals lead the audience through several songs, including their classic “Shout.”

 

 

 

 

 One of the most memorable moments comes when members of the crowd join the band on stage during the finale.

 

The energy is spontaneous and celebratory, capturing the excitement of a band that had just achieved artistic independence.

 Their performance anchors the entire concert and serves as the emotional centerpiece of the film.

 

Patti Austin – A Future Star

One of the most intriguing appearances in the film is by a young Patti Austin, performing early in her career.

 Even at this stage, Austin demonstrates a polished vocal style and confident stage presence. 

 Her performance hints at the major career she would later enjoy as a Grammy-winning jazz and R&B vocalist.

 

For viewers today, her appearance feels like discovering a future star in the making.

 

The Five Stairsteps and Cubie – Family Soul

 

Chicago family group The Five Stairsteps and Cubie bring youthful charm and harmony-rich soul music to the stage.

 Often called “The First Family of Soul,” the group mixes pop sensibilities with smooth R&B vocals. 

Their segment adds a lighter tone to the concert and demonstrates the broad range of styles that existed within the soul music scene.

 

Their upbeat performance fits perfectly into the festival atmosphere of the show.

 

The Edwin Hawkins Singers – Gospel Power

A highlight of the film comes from The Edwin Hawkins Singers, whose gospel performance electrifies the stadium.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh off the massive success of their crossover hit “Oh Happy Day,” the choir delivers a powerful display of spiritual energy. Their harmonies fill the stadium as the crowd claps along.

The segment reminds viewers how closely soul music remained connected to gospel traditions during this era.

 

Jackie “Moms” Mabley – Comedy Interlude

 Legendary comedian Jackie “Moms” Mabley provides comic relief between musical performances.

By the late 1960s, Mabley was already an established figure in Black entertainment. Her witty observations and storytelling bring laughter to the enormous crowd.

 Her presence also reflects the structure of many soul revues of the time, which often included comedy alongside music.

The Clara Ward Singers – Gospel Tradition

Another powerful gospel segment comes from The Clara Ward Singers, one of the most influential gospel groups of the twentieth century.

Their performance is intense and emotionally charged. The group’s dramatic delivery transforms the concert atmosphere into something resembling a church revival meeting.

 

The segment demonstrates how gospel music continued to influence the sound and spirit of soul music during this period.

 

 

Judy White – Smooth Soul Vocals

Soul singer Judy White contributes one of the concert’s more intimate moments.

 

Her smooth vocals and expressive delivery showcase the romantic side of R&B. Backed by a tight band, White delivers a polished performance that highlights the songwriting talent associated with the Isley Brothers’ musical circle.

 

Although she never achieved the fame of some of the other performers, her segment adds depth to the film’s lineup.

The Young Gents – Up-and-Coming Soul

The group The Young Gents represents the emerging wave of soul acts during the late 1960s.

 

Their performance features upbeat rhythms and lively harmonies that capture the youthful energy of the era.

 While not widely remembered today, their appearance provides a valuable glimpse into the broader soul music scene of the time.

The Brooklyn Bridge – Pop-Soul Crossover

Pop-soul band The Brooklyn Bridge adds stylistic diversity to the concert lineup.

Known for blending rock, pop, and soul influences, the group had achieved chart success with their hit “The Worst That Could Happen.”

Their appearance demonstrates how soul music was increasingly crossing over into mainstream pop audiences.

The Winstons – Rhythm and Funk

The concert also features The Winstons, a soul group known for their rhythm-heavy sound.

Their music emphasizes strong grooves and energetic instrumentation, hinting at the emerging funk movement that would dominate the early 1970s.

Their performance adds momentum to the concert and reinforces the film’s role as a snapshot of soul music in transition.

Ike & Tina Turner – Explosive Finale

One of the most electrifying segments in the film comes from Ike & Tina Turner.

Although their performance was filmed separately and later added to the movie, it fits perfectly with the high-energy spirit of the concert.

 

 

Tina Turner’s stage presence is extraordinary. Her powerful vocals and dynamic dancing turn the segment into one of the most unforgettable moments in the film.

 

Backed by the Ikettes and Ike Turner’s band, the performance delivers pure rock-soul intensity.

 

Why This Concert Film Matters

It's Your Thing is more than just a concert movie. It is a cultural time capsule documenting a pivotal moment in the evolution of soul music.

The lineup reflects the rich diversity of Black music during the late 1960s, from gospel choirs to funk-driven soul bands. 

 

The film also highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of the Isley Brothers, who financed and produced the project independently.

 

Despite its historical importance, the movie remains largely unavailable today. Archive prints exist, but it has never received a proper commercial home-video release.

For collectors and fans of classic soul, this makes the film one of the most intriguing lost concert documentaries of the era.

Final Thoughts

Watching It's Your Thing: Live at Yankee Stadium is like stepping into the heart of the late-1960s soul music scene.

 

From the gospel power of the Edwin Hawkins Singers to the explosive stage energy of Ike & Tina Turner, the film captures a vibrant mix of musical styles.

  At the center of it all are the Isley Brothers, celebrating their success and showcasing the artists around them.

If the film were ever restored and widely released, it would undoubtedly become an essential entry in the catalog of classic soul concert films.

Until then, it remains a fascinating and rare glimpse into one of the most exciting periods in soul music history.

James Brown and the Civil Rights Movement: The Story Behind “Say It Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud”

James Brown’s anthem “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” became a Civil Rights Movement rallying cry. Discover its history, impact, and legacy.

 

 Why James Brown Mattered in the Civil Rights Movement

 

James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” is remembered for his electrifying stage presence, innovative sound, and relentless work ethic. But his legacy stretches beyond music—he became a cultural icon during the Civil Rights Movement. 

 

His 1968 anthem “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud”* went beyond entertainment; it was a declaration of identity, a rallying cry for empowerment, and one of the most important songs of its era.

This article explores James Brown’s influence during the Civil Rights era, the significance of his anthem, and why his music continues to inspire conversations about race, pride, and resilience.

 

 James Brown’s Early Life and Career: Roots of Resilience

Born in 1933 in Barnwell, South Carolina, and raised in Augusta, Georgia, James Brown grew up under Jim Crow laws in extreme poverty. He worked odd jobs as a child, shined shoes, and even spent time in juvenile detention. These hardships instilled in him both survival instincts and a hunger for success.

By the early 1960s, Brown had already risen to fame with hits like *“Please, Please, Please”* and *“Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag.”* His explosive performances and innovative rhythms redefined soul and gave birth to funk. 

 

But Brown’s rise wasn’t just about music—his determination to own his publishing rights, control his business decisions, and demand respect for his band made him a trailblazer for Black self-determination.

These values would later align with the Civil Rights Movement and fuel his role as more than just a performer.

America in the 1960s: Civil Rights Backdrop

The 1960s were years of both hope and heartbreak. The Civil Rights Act (1964) and the Voting Rights Act (1965) delivered landmark victories, but racial inequality persisted. 

 

African Americans continued to face systemic discrimination, violence, and limited economic opportunities.

When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in April 1968, anger and despair swept across the nation. Meanwhile, the rise of the Black Power movement encouraged pride in African identity, natural hairstyles, and independence. 

Against this tense backdrop, James Brown’s voice carried weight. He wasn’t a politician or preacher, but he had something perhaps even more powerful: a global stage.

---

The Making of “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud”

### Lyrics That Defined Black Pride

In August 1968, James Brown released *“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud.”* The timing could not have been more urgent. The chorus, shouted by a group of children, rang with pride and defiance:

*“Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m proud!”*

Brown’s choice to include children emphasized generational empowerment. He wanted young African Americans to see their identity as a source of dignity, not shame. The verses tackled systemic oppression while promoting independence and self-respect. Unlike earlier civil rights anthems that focused on freedom or justice, Brown’s message was about pride in being unapologetically Black.

### Why the Song Became a Civil Rights Anthem

The song soared to **#1 on the R\&B charts** and reached **#10 on the Billboard Hot 100.** Its commercial success ensured the anthem reached audiences far beyond activist circles.

But more importantly, it captured the mood of the time. For a community that had been told for centuries to be silent or submissive, Brown’s call to shout one’s identity proudly was radical. The song became a staple at rallies, protests, and gatherings, embodying the shift from civil rights to Black Power.

---

## James Brown’s Role Beyond the Music

James Brown’s influence on the Civil Rights Movement extended far beyond this single anthem.

### Calming Riots After Martin Luther King Jr.’s Assassination

On April 5, 1968, the night after Dr. King’s assassination, Brown was scheduled to perform in Boston. With riots breaking out nationwide, officials considered canceling the show. Instead, Brown persuaded them to let it continue and even arranged for it to be broadcast live on local TV.

During the performance, he spoke directly to the crowd, urging peace and unity. His ability to keep the city calm is still credited with preventing Boston from erupting in violence.

### Promoting Black Economic Empowerment

Brown consistently emphasized financial independence. He urged his audiences to pursue education, buy property, and support Black-owned businesses. His own ventures included radio stations, record labels, and food enterprises. Brown embodied the principle that economic power was just as important as political change.

### Fighting Segregation in the Music Industry

Brown also broke barriers in entertainment. He refused to perform at segregated venues and demanded fair treatment for his band. His insistence on professionalism and respect forced the mainstream music industry to acknowledge the influence of Black performers and audiences.

---

## Criticism and Contradictions

James Brown’s political involvement was not without controversy.

* **Relationship with Politicians:** He sometimes associated with leaders like President Richard Nixon, a move that angered many African Americans who saw Nixon as unsupportive of civil rights.
* **Conservative Views:** Brown often stressed discipline, self-reliance, and personal responsibility, themes that some activists felt aligned more with conservative values than with radical activism.
* **Personal Life:** His later years were marred by legal troubles and personal controversies, complicating his image as a cultural role model.

Despite these contradictions, Brown’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and Black cultural pride remain undeniable.

---

## Lasting Legacy of “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud”

### Influence on Future Generations

More than fifty years later, *“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud”* remains a touchstone. Hip-hop artists like Public Enemy and Kendrick Lamar have sampled or referenced the anthem, while Beyoncé has drawn inspiration from Brown’s unapologetic celebration of Black culture.

### The Song in Classrooms and Black History Studies

Today, the anthem is studied in schools and universities as part of African American history. It’s not just a song—it’s a case study in how popular music can influence politics and culture. Teachers often use it to illustrate how cultural pride became a key component of the Civil Rights Movement.

---

## Conclusion: James Brown’s Message of Pride

James Brown was more than the hardest working man in show business. Through *“Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud,”* he gave voice to a generation searching for affirmation and strength during a turbulent time in American history.

The song was more than entertainment—it was empowerment. It urged millions to embrace who they were with pride, strength, and dignity. By blending music with activism, Brown secured his place not just as the **Godfather of Soul**, but as one of the cultural architects of the Civil Rights era.

James Brown vs. Joe Tex: Soul Music’s Most Explosive Rivalry

 

In the world of classic soul, few rivalries burned as brightly or as bitterly the one between 

James Brown and  Joe Tex.

 

 

 These two Southern-born legends clashed on and off stage, creating not just unforgettable music but an unforgettable feud.

From diss tracks to gunshots, this rivalry had it all. Let’s rewind to explore the drama, competition, and creative sparks that defined one of soul music’s most iconic face-offs.

Two Icons, One Path to Greatness

James Brown, the self-proclaimed “Hardest Working Man in Show Business, came from Augusta, Georgia, and rose through pure grit and showmanship. 

 Joe Tex, born in Baytown, Texas, was equally electric—a preacher-like singer who infused soul with humor and charm.

Both men were born in the 1930s, started recording in the 1950s, and hit their commercial stride in the 1960s. They shared fans, stages, and even romantic interests—but neither was willing to share the spotlight.
 

 

Musical Competition Heats Up

Brown’s revolutionary hits like:

"Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag"

"I Got You (I Feel Good)"

...set the blueprint for funk and high-energy stagecraft.

Tex fired back with his own brand of down-home soul, producing gems like:
 

"Hold What You’ve Got"

"Skinny Legs and All"

"Show Me"

Each new single was a punch. Each performance is a challenge.



Joe Tex—witty, emotional, and unafraid to speak his mind (Photo via Wikimedia Commons)*



The Gunfight at Macon: When Rivalry Turned Violent


The feud exploded in 1963. At the center of the storm was Bea Ford, a singer romantically linked to both artists. 

 

Joe Tex wrote a diss track titled “You Keep Her” directly aimed at James Brown, mocking him for taking his ex-lover.

Brown did not take it lightly.

That same year, during a show in  Macon, Georgia, Brown reportedly brought guns to the venue and opened fire on Tex and his entourage. No one was killed, but the incident cemented the feud’s place in soul music infamy.

📰 *Suggested Image:* A newspaper clipping (real or re-created) with a dramatic headline like *“Shooting at Soul Show – James Brown Involved?”*


Battle of the Stage: Capes, Collapses, and Comedy

James Brown’s legendary cape routine, where he collapsed on stage only to rise and continue performing, became a signature act. But Joe Tex often parodied it, adding comedy and mockery to his shows.

Was it tribute or theft?

Brown believed Tex was stealing his act. Tex believed Brown was taking himself too seriously. Fans were split, but they watched both men with religious devotion.
 

 *Suggested Image:* A side-by-side shot of James Brown in a cape and Joe Tex mimicking the move

Business Smarts and Behind-the-Scenes Jabs

Despite their feud, both men were ahead of their time when it came to business. Joe Tex was among the first soul stars to own his publishing rights, a bold move that Brown would later mirror.

Yet the bitterness never fully faded. Tex accused Brown of **pressuring promoters** to remove him from concert lineups. Brown downplayed Tex’s talent in interviews, calling him **“a clown”** compared to his artistry.

🎤 *Quote Card Graphic:*

> *“James, I got your letter... You said I could have my baby back. But I don’t want her that way.”*
> – Joe Tex, “You Keep Her”

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## 🙏 The Final Years: No Reconciliation

Joe Tex stepped away from music in the late ’70s and became a **minister in the Nation of Islam**, while Brown battled personal demons and legal issues into the 2000s.

Tex died in 1982 at just 47. Brown passed in 2006. Despite decades of tension, they never reconciled publicly.

There Was A Time 

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Legacy: A Rivalry That Pushed Soul Forward

While the feud had its ugly moments, it **pushed both artists to greater heights**. Brown’s innovations in funk might not have been so relentless without a competitor like Tex nipping at his heels. Likewise, Tex’s stage banter and storytelling were sharpened by his need to stand apart.

Today, fans and music historians recognize this not just as a feud—but as a **creative duel** that helped shape the future of soul, funk, and even hip-hop (Joe Tex is one of the most sampled artists in rap music).

---

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RAP MUSIC 80s vs RAP MUSIC 2024

Rap music has come a long way since its early days, and as someone who's watched it grow over the years, I can’t help but marvel at how much has changed from the 1980s to 2024. 

Let me walk you through ten key differences I’ve noticed along the way.

 

1. PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES

Rap 1980s

Back in the 80s, when I first started listening to rap, production was all about drum machines like the Roland TR-808, vinyl sampling, and simple looping techniques.  The sound was raw, and even though it was straightforward, it was incredibly effective. 

Artists who couldn’t play instruments made magic with drum machines, crafting beats that still resonate  today.  Not being able to read or write music didn,t stop them from creating sounds that influenced a generation ( some artists of yesterday, such as James Brown, couldn,t read a note of music).

Many talented rappers were very proficient with rhyming words on the spot. Rap battles were held in clubs, playgrounds, basketball courts, on the streets, etc.

 

 

 Rap 2024

These days, production has become a whole other beast. 

Modern rap uses advanced digital audio workstations (DAWs), complex sampling, and virtual instruments.  Producers blend trap beats, drill, and electronic sounds in ways that would’ve blown my mind back in the day. It’s amazing to see how much skill and knowledge go into mixing and recording now.

2. LYRICISM AND THEMES

 Rap 1980s

I remember when rap lyrics were mostly about social issues, partying, storytelling, and showing off.  The delivery was clear and direct, making it easy to catch every word. The party atmosphere was strong in the records, and we all felt that energy. 

I miss the days of the party jams and strong positive messages in the songs that uplifted you in mind and soul.  Straight good fun whether you were in the club, a house party or just hanging with friends listening to the music.

Rap 2024

Today, rap lyrics have taken a turn. While social issues are still in the mix, there’s a bigger focus on personal struggles, mental health, wealth, and fame.  It’s not uncommon to hear about money, sex, drugs, and violence, which has become more prevalent now that censorship isn’t as strict. 

The main concern for me is the social impact of rap music on our society.  A lot of young folks minds are being shaped by the lyrical content in today,s music.  Profanity is every other word blaring out of a rap song, with videos and concerts are performed by females in scantily clad outfits.   

Lyricism ranges from intricate wordplay to melodic, auto-tuned vocals (people suppose to be singing), which is quite a shift from the straightforward sometimes raw performances that I grew up seeing and hearing.

 

3. CULTURAL INFLUENCES

Rap 1980s
 
Back then, rap was just starting to make waves, especially in New York City. It was the voice of the youth, particularly in African American neighborhoods.I remember how rap battles and dance-offs were a big part of the culture, bringing people together in ways that felt powerful and new.

Rap 2024

Today rap isn’t just a genre—it’s a global phenomenon. It influences and is influenced by cultures and genres from all over the world. It’s amazing to see how mainstream it’s become, with sub-genres like trap, drill, and emo rap showing just how diverse and far-reaching the art of rap has grown.

 

4. COMMERCIALIZATION

 Rap 1980s

In the 80s, rap was mostly underground or independent, with little radio play and not much commercial success.  I remember artists hustling to get their music out there, often selling albums on the street or out of their car trunks.  Some even created hit records in their home studios, which was pretty impressive for the time.

Rap 2024

Today, rap is a major player in the music industry. It’s backed by big corporations, gets plenty of radio play, and established artists like Rick Ross and Lil Wayne are at the top of their game. I’ve seen more and more new artists breaking into the scene, flaunting their wealth and luxury in ways that were unheard of back in the day.

5. TECHNOLOGY AND DISTRIBUTION

Rap Music 1980s 

Back in the 80s, music was all about vinyl records, cassettes, and radio. Distribution was limited by physical media, and promotion relied on radio spots, posters, and word of mouth. There were no streaming services or internet to spread the word, so getting music out there was a different kind of grind.

Rap Music 2024

Times have changed. Now, everything’s digital.  Artists can release music instantly to a global audience through streaming platforms, and social media has become a key player in promotion. Youtube, TikTok, Instagram  and other streaming services have made it easier for people to become famous nearly overnight

 It’s wild to think about how quickly music can reach people now compared to the slower, more localized spread of the 80s.

6. FASHION AND IMAGE

Rap Music 1980s

I remember when rap fashion was all about street culture—tracksuits, gold chains, Kangol hats, and Adidas sneakers. The look was all about authenticity and staying true to where you came from.

Rap Music 2024

Fashion in rap today is a whole different story. It’s more diverse, often designer-driven, with artists blending street-wear with high fashion.  Social media plays a huge role in curating these images, and it’s fascinating to see how carefully crafted everything has become.

7.  COLLABORATIONS AND FEATURES

Rap Music 1980s

In the 80s, collaborations between artists were rare and usually happened within the same area or record label. When they did happen, it felt special and local.
 

Rap Music 2024

Today, collaborations are everywhere, crossing genres, cultures, and even international borders. It’s normal to see rap artists teaming up with pop stars, EDM producers, and more. The collaborations we see now would have been unimaginable back in the day. There were exceptions to the rule; such as the Run-DMC/Aerosmith  collaboration of "Walk This Way". The record, along with the video, was a huge hit.

 

 8. SUB-GENRES AND DIVERSITY

 Rap Music 1980s

The rap scene I grew up with was more uniform, with most artists following a similar style and sound rooted in the boom-bap tradition.  Each artist or group had their own distinct style.You could tell who they were because their vocals were their trademarks along with their unique sounds.

 

Rap Music 2024 

Nowadays, rap has exploded into a variety of sub-genres—trap, drill, conscious rap, mumble rap, and hybrid forms that blend rap with pop, rock, and electronic music. It’s incredible to see how much the genre has expanded and diversified.

 

9. VISUAL AESTHETICS 

 Rap Music 1980s

I remember when music videos were pretty low-budget, focusing on performance and street scenes with a gritty, unpolished look.  Michael Jackson and Prince were the big exceptions, setting a new standard for what music videos could be.

Rap Music 2024

Now, rap visuals are on another level, with cinematic quality, CGI effects, and elaborate story lines. Visual storytelling has become central to an artist's brand, and it’s amazing to see how far things have come.

 

10. IMPACT AND REACH

Rap Music 1980s

In the 80s, rap’s impact was mostly local, resonating within urban communities in the U.S. It felt like our music, something that spoke directly to us.

 

Rap Music 2024

Today, rap is a global force. Artists from all over the world are contributing to the genre, and its influence extends beyond music into politics, social movements, and global pop culture. It is mind-boggoling incredible to see how something that started in small communities has grown into a worldwide phenomenon.

SOUL MUSICIANS: SUFFERING INJURIES FOR THE SAKE OF ART

Dedication. Focus. Persistence.

 These are qualities that one must have in order to achieve your goals in life.  We will always love the soul performances from past artists (regretfully some have passed away) that have given their all on stage and in recordings.

 James Brown, Joe Tex, Patti Labelle, and Prince are just a few performers who gave fantastic shows which became the stuff of legends.  

 

 

But how many of us really know what it takes to do what they do onstage?  

 

How many of us would be willing to pay the price for performing the way they do?

 

    

 

 Constant touring and rehearsing takes a toll on the body and mind.  Imagine (in the case of Sheila E) playing drums, congas and timbales until your fingers bleed.


James Brown (starting from the late 50s, and continuing thru the 60s and early 70s) singing, dancing and screaming night after night, knees bleeding from falling to the floor 5-6 times each show.  

Screaming so hard one night that he could hardly talk the next day( he poured a small jar of honey down his throat before each show).

 





 Prince, who not only did splits, but did them in high heels while jumping off huge amplifiers. 
 High heel shoes and boots were also part of his daily dress wear.

They all had tremendous drive and focus to do what they did on stage.  It took a lot of stamina and will power to get on stage night after night, giving audiences their all, 

making sure when people left, they talked about THAT show!


Artists thrive on the attention of others on and off stage, dressing so they would not look like anyone else. 

Injuries, aches and pains are a big part of performing and often are ignored to the point of where they become very serious issues. 

 Anyone who plays an instrument or multiple instruments(such as guitar, keyboards, drums, etc.,) is subject to carpel tunnel syndrome in fingers and hands thru repetitive motion.


 How did James Brown fall on his knees five, six times a show night after night?  How did Prince leap from the pianos and huge amps into a split every show? 

 

 

 

The answer to that; MIND POWER!  These artists endured setbacks early in the career and decided that they would reach as high as they could, no matter what it took to make it!


James Brown was examined by doctors not long before he died and was found to have very little cartilage in his knees. 

He did splits and knee drops well into his 50s, till he could not do them anymore.  

Michael Jackson would practice his dance moves until his whole body ached from pain.


 I have read about more than one artist being wheeled to the edge of a stage, getting up and doing a show and getting back into the chair waiting for them.  


Al Green appeared on Soul Train with a broken arm(all he had to do was sing, enduring the pain nevertheless) and did a 

 fantastic live show!

 

 
> Even with today,s technology artists still have to prove they have what it takes to perform(to tell the truth some are selected because of their looks, not musical ability.


Whatever your goal is in life, give it your best if you want it badly enough. Just remember there is a price to be paid somewhere along the road. As James Brown used to say; "Pay the cost to be THE BOSS!"