Usher to play James Brown?

R&B star Usher is set to play the godfather of soul James Brown on the big screen.

The star, real name Usher Raymond, recently wowed audiences in the role of Billy Flynn in the Broadway production of Chicago.

A source tells PageSix.com the movie is "still in an options state" but a script is in the works and Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie is vying to play "one of Brown's wives".

Brown's manager, Super Frank, adds: "Mr Brown is a true legend of our times, and he is very excited about making this film."