News 12 at 6 o'clock / Wednesday, December 29, 2010

AUGUSTA---Deanna Brown-Thomas talked exclusively to News 12 about a lengthy court battle and some exciting new possible projects from the Godfather of Soul himself.

Four years after her father's death, Deanna is in a heated court battle to determine who gets what.

"There is a lot on the line," said Deanna. "My father worked very hard for his money. It didn't come easy."

Brown sang and danced his way to an estimated $100 million estate.

"I guess everything has a number," said Deanna. "But don't low-ball my father. Don't low-ball his iconic, legendary status."

"I didn't live to see my father die to get his money," said Deanna. "But what I want to see is his name and his respect be put out there like it should be."

She hopes to turn the family home into a museum and provide scholarships for needy children.

"Dad always wanted a school," said Deanna. "The James Brown School of Music."

"We're hoping and praying next year," said Deanna. "You might even get some new music from the Godfather."

There is still a lot riding on that court battle, with no end in sight.

"We have to do what we have to do," said Deanna. "In order for these great things to come out, we've got to stand with what's right."

"We have dealt with plenty liars, plenty thieves, plenty people who are greedy," said Deanna.

Deanna says her father will be inducted into the International Civil Rights Hall of Fame in January. The Grammys will also have a special tribute to James Brown in February.