SNIP>
>It was a great shame to see him like that, not fast shuffling or doing the splits. He couldn't hit the high notes and yowls anymore and I wondered what was the point, and why was everyone rapturously applauding him.

Well, at the very least, I'd call it RESPECT for a great GREAT career.

There is always room, for people who have been as great as he has, to wane in their later years yet still be a huge draw. If only to be able to say "I saw a James Brown show in person".
Brigette Bardot hasn't "aged well" as many see her, but she's still one of my top 5 actresses/beauties.