Possibly one of the most influential singers during the last half a century is honoured in a fascinating tribute show coming to the UK. Featuring some of the biggest performers from the African continent [the ones from the American continent aren't too shabby, either! - Ed], Somerset and Brighton are the first confirmed dates for a night of soul, funk and sweat covering the career of the enigmatic James Brown and his dalliances with the JBs and Maceo.

The show titled "Still Black, Still Proud", first hit the UK last year, and is again curated by Pee Wee Ellis, the highly regarded contributor and leading light during Brown's heyday and member of the JBs as well as the main force behind the Godfather Of Soul's early hit, "Cold Sweat". As well as arranging many Brown favourites he has also produced arrangements for George Benson, Van Morrison and Omuou Sangare as well as a large chunk of the enigmatic World Circuit label's output.

He is joined by luminairies Manu Dibango, the Mahotella Queens and Ty. Also expected to make an appearance (according to the official website www.stillblackstillproud.com) at the events are Maceo Parker (a previous Brown protege) and world beat visionary Tony Allen. This is one serious night - 20 plus James Brown classics performed by those who worked with him or were influenced by him means that the interpretations are sure to be sympathetic and nothing short of energetic and guaranteed to make it funky.

Slated so far are a date in Pee Wee's home town of Frome in Somerset on Sunday 12th July and one in Brighton at the Concorde 2 the day after. Tickets for the Brighton date cost £17.50 + booking. More dates to be confirmed...