Intuitive Music

 

 

One of the most famous funk singers died on Friday (August 6, 2004) at the age of 56. He was probably best known for his Motown hit in in 1978 “You and I” and another later in 1981 “Super Freak”. He was also considered a peer to many other great artists from the same era including James Brown and Sly Stone.

 

Although he died at a fairly young age, it has been reported that he died in his sleep of natural causes, presumably heart failure after leaving a troubled life after his success with run-ins with the law and drug use.
 
Rick’s music can be heard in all kinds of places as samples were heavily used from his work. He will certainly be missed as a huge influence in the funk movement. Neil Pornow, the president of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences says, “Grammy winner Rick James was a singer, songwriter and producer whose performances were always as dynamic as his personality. The `Super Freak’ of funk will be missed.”

 

He is survived by 3 children.

**Update added August 9:

Producer and DJ Dave Audé has also released a statement regarding one of his idols, Rick James. He says, “The entire music community will miss the king of Punk Funk. When he was on, he was on fire. One of my idols, who produced one of the best basslines of all time!!”

The bass line he’s referring to is the one used by MC Hammer among others in his smash hit “Can’t Touch This”.