America's legendary godfather of soul James Brown died of pneumonia at the age of 73 on Monday morning.

Associated Press reports Brown was admitted to Emory Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta with a severe case of pneumonia on Sunday.

Throughout the years, James Brown has had a huge influence on the development of soul, funk and rap music. He is widely considered one of the most important musicians in American history.

James Brown played to masses of enthusiastic fans in Shanghai earlier this year.

(CRI December 25, 2006)