Summary of representative Western funk artists and groups
Have you heard of funk, a genre of music that evolved from soul in the 1960s and 1970s?
Many funk songs became huge hits, so you might have listened to some without even realizing they were funk.
This article introduces the essential artists and groups you can’t leave out when talking about funk.
Even today, in the 2020s, many of these artists are active as solo musicians and producers.
By tracing the history of funk, you’ll see how it connects to modern genres like rock, pop, hip-hop, and R&B.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to dive deeper into the world of funk, be sure to check it out!
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- [Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once
- A roundup of great soul music singers and artists
- For Beginners to Western Music: Recommended Western Music Groups – A Roundup of Popular Bands
- [Western Music] Must-Know: A Roundup of Popular Overseas Fusion Bands
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
- Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists
- Recommended male artists and singers in Western music from the 1970s
Summary of representative funk Western music artists and groups (11–20)
If I’m In Luck I Might Get Picked UpBetty Davis
Betty Davis is a female funk musician who took the world by storm in the 1970s.
Known for her powerful vocals and provocative performances, she is highly regarded as a pioneering figure in funk music that weaves in elements of rock, soul, and jazz.
In the mid-’70s, Betty released a string of ambitious works, beginning with her 1973 debut album Betty Davis, followed by They Say I’m Different and Nasty Gal.
These records drew raves from critics, who praised them as “unlike any other funk” and “outstanding funk records.” Her former husband, Miles Davis, also seemed to hold her musical talent in high esteem.
Betty’s brand of funk is compelling for its explosive expression of female strength and sexuality.
While deeply reflective of the 1970s, it also possesses an appeal that resonates with today’s music scene.
In conclusion
The artists and groups introduced this time are all representative musicians of funk music, but there are still many more talents we’d like to feature.
From well-known figures to hidden gems who, while niche, enjoy passionate support, be sure to keep an eye on the richly talented, uniquely individual artists and groups that are the hallmark of funk music!