James Brown's family has marked the late Godfather Of Soul's 74th birthday with an attack on the music industry.

At a gathering marked by joy more than sorrow, thousands of James Brown’s fans and friends filled an arena bearing his name today for their final tribute to the homegrown singer known as the “Godfather of Soul”.

“Godfather of Soul” James Brown, who died in Atlanta early today at the age of 73, was one of the major musical influences of the past 50 years.

A life-sized bronze statue of soul legend James Brown has been unveiled in his hometown of Augusta, Georgia, to celebrate his musical accomplishments.

James Brown, known as the Godfather of Soul, pleaded guilty today to a domestic violence charge stemming from an argument with his wife and was let off with a £620 fine.