More on James Brown

The goings on with the estate of James Brown have received considerable discussion on this blog.  A recent article provides some additional interesting information.  Here are a few highlights from Mary Bridges, Tortured Soul, Conde Nast Portfolio, Aug. 2008, at 67-68.

• Twenty-one lawyers claim to be “lead counsel” in the estate litigation.
• The lawyer who prepared his will is in prison serving a 30 year prison sentence for murder.
• Many opportunities to make money for the estate appear to being “wasted” such as a line of James Brown toys, a movie to be directed by Spike Lee, a museum in South Carolina, and a reality TV series.
• The licensing of his name for use on video slot machines did take place which could raise an estimated $500,000 per year for the estate.
• Sales of Brown’s recordings have more than doubled since his death.

Special thanks to Joel Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.