The J.B.'s - Doing It to Death

​Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of The J.B.'s 2nd Studio Album “Doing It to Death” Originally Released on January 29, 1973.

 

“Doing It to Death” is the second studio album by The J.B.'s, released in 1973 by People Records.

 

The album includes a ten-minute version of the #1 R&B hit "Doing It to Death", which is led by Danny Ray's introduction to simulate his MC in concerts.

 

The introduction, like many Brown's produced live albums, such as Live at the Apollo, Live at the Apollo, Volume II and Revolution of the Mind were sampled on hip hop and electronic music.

 

The album also includes the R&B classics "More Peas," another funky tune praised for their undeniable groove.

 

Aside from the album’s title track, the primary song on the 1973 album influenced by the Watergate scandal is "You Can Have Watergate Just Gimme Some Bucks And I'll Be Straight”.

 

Though it's initially an J.B.'s album James Brown is heavily featured with his classic shouts, grunts, and direction, even playing organ.

 

Musical highlights include Fred Wesley's trombone, Maceo Parker's sax, and Janes Brown providing additional keyboard work, creating rich textures.

 

Many music critics note Brown's extensive presence might overshadow the band, but generally, it's seen as a perfect example of his powerful funk machine at work.

 

The album is viewed as a sampling goldmine because of Its breakdowns and grooves were heavily sampled by hip-hop top producers during the 1980s.

 

"Doing It to Death" ultimately became The J.B.'s best-selling studio album alongside their debut studio album “Food for Thought”, released in 1972.

 

Tracklist

All songs were written and arranged by James Brown.

 

1. Introduction to the J.B.'s

2. Doing It to Death Parts 1 & 2

3. You Can Have Watergate Just Gimme Some Bucks and I'll Be Straight

4. More Peas

5. La Di Da La Di Day (from the Motion Picture Slaughter's Big Rip-Off)

6. You Can Have Watergate Just Gimme Some Bucks and I'll Be Straight

7. Sucker

8. You Can Have Watergate Just Gimme Some Bucks and I'll Be Straight

 

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©