Rick James: Super Freak Funk Star Dies at 56

Rick James was an American funk singer and songwriter. Born James Ambrose Johnson Jr. on February 1, 1948, in Buffalo, New York, he rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

James scored with "You and I" and "Super Freak" (1981), and his album Street Songs sold millions. As co-writer, he shared a 1991 Grammy for Best R&B Song for "U Can't Touch This," which sampled "Super Freak." He also produced the Mary Jane Girls and Teena Marie.

James struggled with drug addiction and served time in prison in the 1990s. He was found dead at his home in Burbank, California, on August 6, 2004, at age 56, and the coroner ruled the death due to natural causes.

Achievements: Grammy Award (1991, co-writer), hits "Super Freak" and "Give It to Me Baby."

Birth: February 1, 1948 - Buffalo, New York.

Profession: Singer and songwriter.

Interesting Facts: His catchphrase was parodied on Chappelle's Show.