![]() The stone city bands flashy outfits had sex appeal and was comprised of expensive cowboy boots, spandex with a touch of disco glitter but don’t get it twisted they all rocked braids like African warriors. He wanted that allure and his stage show with his Stone City band would rival any major rock band at the time like “Kiss” with their theatrics, pyrotechnics and explosions. Like if David Bowie and Roger Daltrey were from the hood. Rick was a visionary and had the pure talent to back it up he wanted to be the first Black Rock Star with street credibility. His genius and rebellious attitude made Rick James a ghetto superstar. Rick James and Grace Jones at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards – Getty Images Rick felt disrespected and used his celebrity platform to challenge the system and denounce MTV’s racist ways in public interviews. So in pure bad boy fashion Rick refused to bite his tongue and fight the power. However, MTV refused to play any of his music videos or black artist in general. Rick James was in the height of his fame and popularity and felt his music should be included in their daily programming. ![]() A 24 hour Music television channel devoted to popular music but refused to play any black Artist on their broadcast. To live with out fear is what made people love him so much… this man was on fire. Rocking sold out tours smoking the biggest joints of marijuana during his performances on stage in every city and encouraging the audience to do the same. His unapologetic embodiment of the black experience through sound quickly made him the people’s champion. He was known for his powerful vocals, innovative production techniques, and boundary-pushing lyrics that explored themes of sexuality, drugs, and street life. James’s unique blend of funk, rock, R&B, and soul earned him critical acclaim and a large following, particularly in the 1980s when he released hit songs such as “Super Freak” and “Give It To Me Baby.” His music was intoxicating and incredible. Big Time.…Rick James, the self proclaimed king of punk funk. Today is the first day of Black History Month and also happens to be one of our favorite ground-breaking black artists and legends birthdays Mr.
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