Birthday wishes to the Godfather of Soul

I cannot claim that I know James Brown.

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Sure, I see him a few times a year, and have spoken with him on several occasions, but we don't exchange Christmas cards, don't have each other's home numbers on speed dial and have never shared a quiet meal together.

We're more passing acquaintances than anything, but there are some things about the man that I know to be true.

I know that he has a fantastic handshake.

I know that although sometimes it's inconvenient, when I've come calling, he has always been generous with his time and very kind.

I know that he has a smile that, well, feels good.

I know that he values good manners.

I know that he believes doors should be opened for women.

I know that he can hear a flat note or a dropped beat in the most complex of big band arrangements.

I know that among a slew of celebrity portraits, he has a special shelf on which he keeps a portrait of his father.

I know that he loves Augusta.

For those reasons, in addition to 50 years of fantastic music, I would like to offer James Brown my warmest well wishes, if a few days belated, on his 73rd birthday. Happy birthday, Mr. Brown. Happy birthday to you.

Jingle bell rock

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

Although the hot, hot heat of summer is not yet upon us, the hard-rocking crew at 12 Bands of Christmas is already looking toward the holidays. It is searching for acts to participate in this year's 12 Bands CD and concert.

Acts are asked to submit a recording of a proposed Christmas song - classic or original. Quality is unimportant. The goal is to get a feel for each track's seasonal style before deciding which bands will be one of the lucky dozen taken into the studio and ultimately onto the stage at the Imperial Theatre.

The deadline for submissions is 6 p.m. Monday, May 29. For more information and guidelines, visit www.12bandsofchristmas.com.

Reach Steven Uhles at (706) 823-3626 or steven.uhles@augustachronicle.com.