Wesley, Fred -and The J.b.'s-
Damn Right I Am Somebody
"Damn Right I Am Somebody" is a funk album by Fred Wesley and The J.B.'s, released in 1974. As the bandleader and trombonist, Fred Wesley leads the legendary backing band for James Brown, delivering tight grooves, punchy horn lines, and politically charged energy. The album blends deep funk, soul, and social commentary, with tracks like the title song "Damn Right I Am Somebody" reflecting themes of black pride and empowerment during the postcivil rights era. James Brown himself produced the album and appears throughout, adding vocals and direction. Widely regarded as a cornerstone of 1970s funk, the album showcases The J.B.'s' precision musicianship and helped lay the groundwork for later developments in hip-hop and R&B through its breakbeats and infectious rhythms.