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(CNN) -- James Brown, one of the pioneers of soul music, has died at 73.
CNN.com asked readers what they most admired about the "Godfather of Soul." Here is a selection of their responses, some of which have been edited for length and clarity:
Chuck S. of Los Angeles, California
Gone is one of the greatest musicians who single-handedly influenced not only American popular culture and music, but music from all over the world. James Brown's music will live on. His influence on our culture will remind many of us, forever, of the power of one man. His strength, his creativity, his sheer force of will have moved generations and will continue to do so.
Vernon Crider of Baltimore, Maryland
Isn't it ironic the "Godfather of Soul," who gave so much to our modern culture, passes away on Christmas Day -- the season of giving?
Bob Feldman of Austin, Texas
There are very few living legends left in music. Today, we lost one of the greatest legends who ever lived. James Brown defined the word "soul." Anyone who makes or listens to music has been touched by his genius in one form or another. Heaven just became an even better place to spend eternity.
Reginald Davenport of Springville, Utah
My memory of James Brown is from a few years ago when I saw him in concert in Montgomery, Alabama. It was an outdoor event, and it happened to be his birthday. ... He was doing his thing, and I loved every minute of it. I felt like a kid again; mind you, I was about 33 years old at the time.
Delise Means of Tulsa, Oklahoma
Goodbye James Brown. I have listened to your music it seems like all of my life. It's kind of scary to know you are gone, but your music will live on forever.
Benjamin Wilkinson of Berkeley, California
Thanks for making music and [for] making music better than anyone. You're a major influence on me and my fellow musician friends.
Derrick Westmoreland of Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts
I grew up listening to James Brown. Yes, he is a legendary icon. I do send my condolences to his family. ... Everything about James Brown was interesting, especially his songs.
Bonnie Butler of Evans, Georgia
In 1986, I had just joined the military and was stationed here in Georgia for my training. I was at the car wash when James Brown came up to us and asked us for change for a dollar so he could use the car wash.
Michel Patenaude of Montreal, Quebec
I remember when I was a kid in the '60s, and my older brother would play James Brown music when throwing parties in our basement -- it was the coolest music on the block. And I remember the rhythms, learning to dance to "I Feel Good" and all the classics that followed. To this day, I still hear that song and it makes me feel great to be alive. Thank you James Brown for inventing funk, and giving us great artists such as Sly and the Family Stone and Prince, and all those wonderful samples used in rap music. The world is a better place because of your contribution. Now get some rest and peace; we won't forget you.
Read more e-mail tributes to James Brown
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