EIU Media Relations

The Legendary James Brown to Perform at EIU

James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” will present this year’s Family Weekend concert on the campus of Eastern Illinois University.

The University Board-sponsored performance is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, in EIU’s Lantz Arena, with doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20; all seats are reserved.

Tickets are now available through the University Union Ticket Office, open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visa/Mastercard are accepted. Orders may be placed in person or over the phone at (217) 581-5122.

Brown, a globally recognized entertainer with a momentous recording career that has included 119 charted singles and more than 50 best-selling albums, is known as one of the most popular and influential singers in musical history. Over a 40-year period, he has amassed an amazing total of 98 entries on Billboard’s top 40 R&B Singles charts, and total record sales of 50 million, a record unsurpassed by any other artist. Seventeen singles reached No. 1, a feat topped only by Stevie Wonder and Louis Jordan, and equaled by Aretha Franklin.

His hits include “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “It’s a Man’s World,” “The Big Payback,” “Living in America” and “I Got the Feelin.’”

Brown’s awards and accolades are numerous. He has been recognized as a recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors Award (2003), and as a charter member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1986).

In addition, known for his brand of funk, energetic performances and distinctive vocal style, Brown has achieved legendary status, inspiring a generation of younger musicians. He has performed on stage with many noted musical celebrities, including Usher, Justin Timberlake, the Black Eyed Peas, Pink, Carlos Santana and more.