King of Them All

"King of Them All" unfolds like a listening session with history. From James Brown’s soul to the Stanley Brothers’ bluegrass, King Records shaped genres that still echo today. Guided by voices like Seymour Stein, Vince Gill, and Christian McBride, the film restores a lost legacy.

Hank Ballard brought raw energy and provocative lyrics to King Records, with a catalog so edgy fans had to listen under the covers. Seen by many as one of the first soul singers, Ballard blurred the lines between R&B and rock, leaving an indelible mark on American music and opening the door for future artists.

James Brown’s breakout hit “Please, Please, Please” drew directly from the gospel tradition, channeling its pleading repetition and raw emotion into a new sound. Misunderstood by critics but electrifying to audiences, the song became a turning point in popular music, marking the rise of Brown’s unmatched career and the birth of a new era in soul.