There Was a Time

James Brown

About There Was a Time

Not to be confused with "Once There Was a Time", sung by Tom Jones. "There Was a Time" is a song written and performed by James Brown.


Year:
2002
745 

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There was a day, there was a time
When I used to play
There was a time when I used to play
But take me now, baby, don't worry about later
Teach the dance I used to do
They call it the Mashed Potato

There was a day, now dig this
There was a day, they call it the Jerk
Everybody relax and watch me work

In my hometown where I used to stay
The name of the place is Augusta, GA
Down there we have a good time
We don't talk
We all get together in time, for rhythm with you
So come and walk

There was a day that I used to do
The name of the dance
They call it Boogaloo
I may not do the dance as well as you
But baby, you can bet your bottom dollar
That you never hear me holler
I do the best that I can do

There was a time, sometimes I dance
Sometimes I dance, sometimes I clown
But you can bet you haven't seen nothing yet
Until you see me do the James Brown

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


James Brown

James Joseph Brown (May 3, 1933 – December 25, 2006) was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and recording artist. He is the originator of funk music and is a major figure of 20th century popular music and dance. more »

2 fans

Written by: Buddy J. Hobgood, James Brown

Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing, CARLIN AMERICA INC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


14 facts about this song

Record Label
"There Was a Time" was released under King Records, an American leading independent record company.
Hit Song
The single managed to reach number 3 on the R&B charts and number 36 on the Pop charts, confirming its status as a hit song.
Live Performance
The live version of this song was featured on James Brown's groundbreaking live album, "Live at the Apollo, Volume II," in 1968.
Soul Classic
The song is considered a classic of Brown's repertoire, embodying his unique brand of soul and funk music.
Long-Lasting Influence
"There Was a Time" had a significant influence on later generations of funk and soul musicians, as well as hip-hop artists.
Band Members
Recording band members include the Famous Flames - Bobby Byrd, Bobby Bennett, and Baby Lloyd, along with the James Brown Orchestra.
Signature Dance Moves
In live shows, James Brown would typically demonstrate his signature dance moves during this song.
Release Year
"There was a Time" was first released as a two-part single in 1967.
Recorded Live
The highly praised version of "There Was a Time" was recorded live at the Apollo Theater.
Songwriters
The song was co-written by James Brown and his bandleader, Alfred "Pee Wee" Ellis.
Distinctive Lyrics
The lyrics draw from James Brown's experiences growing up in the segregated South, providing a rare autobiographical perspective.
The Godfather of Soul
James Brown, also known as "The Godfather of Soul," is widely credited for writing and performing "There Was a Time", highlighting his ability to generate hits.
Musical Structure
The song’s structure represents a departure from traditional song forms; it doesn’t have a clear chorus and verses, reflecting James Brown's unique style.
Use in Media
"There Was a Time" has been used in numerous films and advertisements over the years, indicating its enduring appeal.

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    There Was a Time

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1968

    Billboard #36


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