Remember Rick James for more than his Celebrity.
There was more to Super Star Rick James than his Celebrity.
The Story: More To Come On The R &
B Funk Legend from the people that loved and knew him and their perspectives. James A. Johnson, Jr. was a son,
brother, nephrew, cousin, uncle, partner/spouse, father, grandfather and friend. He was Human like all of us. He was
a brillant man and an accomphished music artist that had the ability to touch people worldwide through his creative talent
and his music. He wrote rhymes, peoms, songs and music. He sang both lead and background vocals. He could play numerous
instruments. He played lead and bass guitar, the harmonica,
clavinet, keyboards, synthesizer, vibes, African Slot Drum, congas and timbales. His signature instrument was the guitar. Rick
wrote original song lyrics, timeless ballards, and music, composed, arranged, produced music, sang, genuninely enjoyed
performing, energetically and flirtatiously moved and entertain during his live concerts, t.v. & music video performances.
He was a multi - dimensional, multi - faceted, multi - talented
and gifted indivivual. He created the dynamic persona and colorful character Rick James from his vivid imagination and
his "alter ego". He wrote his best songs and his music from his personal urban life Buffalo, N.Y. experiences.
He was honest and he was real. People could relate to him, connect with his lyrics, identify with his funk sound.
His signature sound, music and vocal chords touched, tapped the inner emotions and stirred us. Shifted
our mood. Made us capture our mind's thoughts, feelings, our own life experiences, our memories and motivated us
to express ourselves and dance. His beats kept us on our feet dancing, living life and being in the moment
with ourselves.
Like most of our Stone Family Members Rick James had personality, great presence, was charismatic,
a generous spirit and knew how to give a room or a stage atmosphere. He always acknowledged God as his creator and thanked
him for his life and inspiration, his mother Betty for her love, faith and support and his family, personal friends, band,
co-musicians and hand clappers on his Album's inside sleeve covers. His Legacy to his family, his children and grandchildren
is his music. Hopefully, "You & I" can reflect upon Rick's life, music, learn from our observations and have more insight
and compassion for the human experience. Especially, our own.
