James Brown's belongings to be sold at auction

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The personal belongings of legendary soul singer James Brown, including his instruments, awards, furniture and memorabilia will be sold at auction this summer, Christie's said on Wednesday.

Brown, known as the "Godfather of Soul" whose hits included "Living in America," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "I Got You (I Feel Good)," died aged 73 on Christmas Day 2006 of congestive heart failure.

"Widely regarded as one of the greatest musical legends of the 20th century, (Brown's) enormous talent and innovative style are responsible for influencing generations of singers and songwriters, and capturing the hearts of music lovers everywhere," Simeon Lipman, Christie's head of popular culture in New York said in a statement.

Brown's estate has been the subject of much dispute and legal wrangling since his death, involving members of his large family including several adult children as well as ex-girlfriends and ex-wives.

Court-appointed trustees for his estate, variously reported to be worth between $100 million and $200 million, filed lawsuit in South Carolina in February against Brown's business managers, a law firm and a bank, alleging fraud had been conspired against the singer.

The sale in late July will also include photographs.

Reuters/Nielsen