"James Ambrose Johnson Jr. (February 1, 1948 – August 6, 2004), better known by his stage name Rick James, was an American singer, musician, producer, and songwriter. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, James began his musical career in his teenage years. In the late 1960s he moved to California, where he started a variety of rock and funk groups with various success. After forming the locally popular Stone City Band back in his hometown of Buffalo in 1977, James finally found success as a recording artist after signing with Motown's Gordy Records, releasing his first album as Rick James in 1978: “Come Get It!” which produced the hits ""You & I"" and ""Mary Jane"". In 1981, James released his most successful album, Street Songs, which included career-defining hits such as ""Give It to Me Baby"" and ""Super Freak"", his biggest crossover single, mixing elements of funk, disco, rock, and new wave. Rapper MC Hammer sampled James's ""Super Freak"" for his 1990 hit, ""U Can't Touch This"" which won Best R&B Song at the 1991 Grammy Awards. James received his only Grammy for composing this song. Rick James was also known for his soulful ballads such as ""Fire & Desire"" and ""Ebony Eyes"". This “Collected” 3-CD compilation combines all Rick James’ Hits and defining tracks from his successful career."