If you’ve ever hopped on the good foot and done the bad thing to a James Brown record, you’ve likely grooved to the bass of Bernard Odum. The Godfather Of Soul’s bassist from 1956 to 1969, Bernard played on Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag, I Got You (I Feel Good) and many more stone cold classics.

In late 1969, Bernard and most of his bandmates walked out on JB in a dispute over wages. The following year the disaffected group released a righteous slab of funk called Doin’ Their Own Thing by Maceo And All The King’s Men; led by former James Brown saxophonist Maceo Parker. The album features a cover of Sly Stone’s Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). It's funkier than a two-week old tuna sandwich.

Band(s): James Brown, Maceo And All The King’s Men

Gear: 1956 Fender Precision, Vox Delta IV bass, Vox Westminster amp

More info:www.acesandeighths.com/bassists.html#bass_odum

Listen: James Brown - Cold Sweat