From: Bob Davis (earthjuice_at_prodigy.net)
Date: 2004-08-26 03:59:13
Bertrand (Bernard) Odom, a member of the famed James Brown Orchestra at its height in the
1960s and one of the most influential bassists of the last 40 years, died of kidney failure at
a Mobile, Alabama, hospital on Tuesday, August 17, 2004. A native of Monroe County, Alabama,
and a resident of Mobile, Mr. Odom was 72.
Mr. Odom's best known recordings include the landmark Top 10 hits "Papa's Got A Brand New
Bag," "Cold Sweat" and "I Got The Feelin'." Though he stopped recording with Brown band in
the late Sixties, he remained a member of the Brown entourage until health complications
forced him to retire in 1998. Mr. Odom also performed with Maceo Parker's Band for several
years.
While living in Brooklyn, NY, Mr. Odom served as vice president of the Board of Directors for
Youth Development Organization, Inc., New York, NY. He was also manager of "The Last Remark"
singing group and several gospel groups in Brownsville, NY.
Before joining the Brown band Mr. Odom served in the United States Army and Navy.
After his retirement Mr. Odom moved back to Mobile, Alabama. He joined Bethel A.M.E. church
and became the bass player for the youth choir. He also played occasionally with the local Joe
Morris Band and in jam sessions for fun with other local musicians.
He is survived by one son, Norman Odom, Brooklyn NY ; one daughter, Elsie Sawyer, Mobile,
Alabama ; a brother, Mose Odom, Brooklyn, NY, two devoted sisters, Lillian Lousie Dunn, and
Mrs Vernetta (Charles) Greene both of Mobile, Alabama ; a devoted ex-wife Ms. Annette McCoy,
Brooklyn, NY ; four grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and
friends.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 25th, at Bethel A.M.E. church, in Mobile.
Interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery.
_________
Bob Davis
earthjuice_at_prodigy.net
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