Yet another sad death to report with the passing of James Brown.

The Godfather Of Soul’s influence on Led Zeppelin can be heard in the many off-the-cuff live arrangements of ‘The Crunge’, within ‘Dazed And Confused’ and ‘Whole Lotta Love’ circa 1972-75 … and of course the studio track of the same name from the Houses Of The Holy album.

I’ve been aware of the music of James Brown since the mid 1960’s when the bruv JL invested in a series of his albums on the King label. Robert Plant more than likely had the same records – witness his enthusiasm to regularly insert James Brownism’s during the aforementioned performances. Most notably ‘Lickin’ Stick’ at the Vancouver March 20 ‘75 show and the delivery of ‘Sex Machine’ five days later at the LA Forum. There’s also that great version of ‘Think’ that Robert and the Priory Of Brion performed circa 1999/2000. I’ll be searching out such gems to remember the legend of the original funk soul brother over the new year.

And finally … Goodbye 2006. As we wave a fond farewell to the old year it seems an appropriate moment to finally indulge in my 50 at 50 lists. These are the 50 personal favourite tracks/albums and gigs as compiled on the occasion of my 50th birthday. 2007 now beckons with an exciting full schedule of Tight But Loose activity planned. So keep listening and keep reading – and may I wish you all a happy healthy and prosperous new year.