Watch James Brown: Live at the Apollo '68

James Brown: Live at the Apollo '68 is a concert film recorded at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York in 1968 by the legendary American musician, James Brown. The film captures Brown's electrifying performance in front of a packed audience, showcasing his unparalleled showmanship, incredible energy, and unmatched talent as a singer, dancer, and bandleader.

The film opens with Brown's band, The James Brown Orchestra, setting the stage for his entrance, while Brown is seen backstage getting ready for the show. As he steps onto the stage in a sparkly red suit, the crowd goes wild, and he launches into his hit song "Say It Loud - I'm Black and I'm Proud." This sets the tone for the rest of the film, as Brown takes the audience on a wild ride through his many hits and a few lesser-known tracks, showcasing his vocal prowess, dancing skills, and penchant for audience participation.

Throughout the film, Brown commands the stage with a ferocity that is unmatched. He moves from song to song with effortless ease, often not even stopping to catch his breath between numbers. His vocal range is incredible, and his ability to convey emotion through his singing is second to none. At various points in the film, he engages with members of the audience, getting them to sing along, dance, and even repeat after him as he shouts out various phrases and slogans.

One of the standout moments of the film comes during the performance of "Try Me," in which Brown slows things down and delivers a heartfelt rendition of the ballad. The audience is transfixed as he pours his soul into the song, showcasing a more vulnerable side of himself. This contrast with the high-energy, frenetic pace of the rest of the film serves to highlight Brown's versatility as a performer and his ability to connect with his audience on multiple levels.

Another standout moment of the film is the performance of "I Got the Feelin'," during which Brown truly lets loose and demonstrates his incredible dancing skills. He moves across the stage with a fluidity and grace that is breathtaking, executing spins and splits with ease. The audience is in awe as they watch him move, and the energy in the theater is palpable.

Overall, James Brown: Live at the Apollo '68 is a must-see film for any fan of James Brown or of live music in general. It captures Brown at the height of his powers, as he delivers an unforgettable performance that will have you on your feet and dancing along with him. The film is a testament to Brown's enduring legacy and his unparalleled talent, and it serves as a reminder of the incredible impact he had on the world of music.