Nappy Brown, the Charlotte-born Rhythm & Blues vocalist who evolved into a prolific blues performer, died September 20 in his hometown. The funeral service is September 27 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Paul Baptist Church, 1401 Allen St. Visitation is at 1 p.m.

Mr. Brown

Mr. Brown, who was born Napoleon Brown Culp on Oct. 12, 1929, enjoyed a highly successful singing career that began with a series of hit recordings in the 1950s. At his zenith with Savoy Records, Mr. Brown often played gigs nightly and toured the country with Jackie Wilson, Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Howlin' Wolf, Little Richard and T-Bone Walker. One of his biggest hit songs was "Night Time Is The Right Time," which was recorded by Charles in 1958.

Mr. Brown was an active performer until his illness and his last studio recording “Long Time Coming,” was released last September.

After a career lull, Mr. Brown made a comeback in the 1980s with a string of albums on Alligator, Ichiban, and Black Top records and guest appearances on recordings by Bob Margolin and Bob Corritore. His final performance was in May at the 2008 Blues Music Awards.

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