I Feel Good

Repertoire description: 

"I Got You (I Feel Good)" is a twelve-bar blues, originally written with a brass-heavy instrumental arrangement similar to Brown's previous hit, "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag". It also features the same emphasis "on the one" (i.e. the first beat of the measure) that characterizes Brown's developing funk style. Of Brown's 99 hits to reach the Billboard Hot 100 (a total surpassed only by Elvis Presley), "I Got You (I Feel Good)" is Brown's highest-charting song, peaking at number three. The song remained at the top of the Billboard Rhythm and Blues Singles chart for six non-consecutive weeks, after his previous single, "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag", held the number-one spot for eight weeks. The song has also been covered many times by other performers, and is frequently played at sporting events. In 2000, "I Got You (I Feel Good)" reached number 21 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs in Rock and Roll and number 75 on VH1's 100 Greatest Rock and Roll Dance Songs, one of only seven songs to make both lists. In 2004, "I Got You (I Feel Good)" was ranked number 78 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.

The lyrics have Brown exulting in how good he feels ("nice, like sugar and spice") now that he has the one he loves. It is almost impossible to listen to this song without getting into the groove and singing along with a huge grin on your face and a sassy sway of your body.

Repertoire Style: 

Rep music by: 

James Brown

Rep lyrics by: 

James Brown