News 12 at 11, October 12, 2007

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- James Brown knew how he wanted his money spent, and to make sure his wishes were carried out, he made a tape.

It's only a four and a half minute audio tape. You never see him, but the Godfather's message is clear.

He was the hardest working man in show business: "From the time that I get up, gentlemen, ladies until the time I retire, I'm working. I'm a 24 hour man because I live through my work," says Brown on the tape.

He knew people might work overtime after his death to get a piece of his fortune. That's why Brown says made this tape. "This is something that will go on and on after I'm gone. Hopefully, this tape will be duplicated many times and put in many places to stabilize what we are trying to do here on this day."

What the Godfather wanted most? To give back to those who needed it most: needy children.

"I hope that this will be a guideline to what we are trying to do right, by trying to leave a legacy. Hopefully a legacy that will serve as a mentor for young people to make it from all walks of life."

He wanted this money put away in the "I Feel Good Trust."

Another thing he wanted? Equality for all children.

"Let me say this though, my intentions are not just for black kids but for poor children. We're not going to limit no color. We've had enough of that in America already."

And he wanted his legacy of giving to spread across the globe.

"It's not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country and I think this is a tribute to country, and to you man, to mankind throughout the world that I made it with god's blessings, in spite of all the obstacles, all ups and downs, or I wouldn't have these people here to take me to a point that I can give back."

Giving back, he says, to show the man above he was thankful for all he was blessed with. "Now I prayed before I came here. Nothing is mine anyway. We're all given to it by God, so whatever I do with it, I hope I'm doing His work."