James Brown – Papa Don’t Take No Mess (Polydor PD 14255)

Papa Don’t Take No Mess – James Brown [Vinyl Single Review]

Polydor records 1974 ‎– PD 14255

 

notes:

When James Brown dropped “Papa Don’t Take No Mess” in 1974 under
 James Brown, it wasn’t just another funk release—it was a statement. 
Released on Polydor Records (catalog PD 14255), the track captures Brown
 at his most groove-heavy, storytelling, and unapologetically raw.
A Funk Epic, Not Just a Song
Clocking in at over 10 minutes in its full version, “Papa Don’t Take No Mess” 
is built like a slow-burning funk sermon. Instead of rushing, it breathes. 
The rhythm section locks into a deep, rolling pocket, while Brown layers 
his signature vocal shouts, calls, and rhythmic preaching over the top.
This track isn’t designed for radio polish—it’s built for the stage, the dancefloor, 
and pure groove immersion.

credits:

Lead
James Brown – lead vocal, piano (extended LP version)
The J.B.’s (core band)
Fred Wesley – trombone
Maceo Parker – alto saxophone
St. Clair Pinckney – tenor saxophone
Ike Oakley – trumpet
Rhythm section
Jimmy Nolen – guitar
Hearlon "Cheese" Martin – guitar
Fred Thomas – bass
John "Jabo" Starks – drums
John Morgan or Johnny Griggs – percussion

Arranged By, Producer – James Brown
Written-By – Fred Wesley, James Brown, John Starks

Recording date: August 23, 1973
Studio: International Studios (Augusta, Georgia)


Engineer [Assistant] – David Stone, Lowell Dorn, Major
Engineer, Supervised By [Production Supervision] – Bob Both 

Recorded for the unreleased Hell Up in Harlem soundtrack, 

later issued on Hell and as a 2-part single.

 Tracklist:

A     Papa Don't Take No Mess (Part I) (Mono)     4:30
B     Papa Don't Take No Mess (Part I) (Stereo)     4:30

 link