WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) -- James Brown will perform in New Zealand after the government granted the Godfather of Soul a special visa, despite a string of criminal convictions that would normally ban him from the country.

Brown, 70, received a special event work visa to perform a "one night only" show in the northern city of Auckland Wednesday night, immigration officials said.

The singer faces a jury trial in South Carolina in a criminal domestic violence case involving his wife. Eight months ago, he was pardoned by a state board for seven convictions he had collected over 10 years, mostly involving weapons.
 
He has further convictions involving assault, drugs and high-speed car chases.

Under New Zealand law, anyone with criminal convictions can be refused entry to the country, but can be allowed in under special conditions.

"In deciding to approve a special visa for Mr. Brown, the minister felt that the benefits of allowing Mr. Brown to visit New Zealand outweighed any conflicting concerns associated with his visit," said Immigration Service spokesman Brett Solvander.

Brown\'s hits include "Please, Please, Please," "I Got You (I Feel Good)" and "Papa\'s Got a Brand New Bag."