Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
Even if you don’t actually listen to funk as a music genre, many people unconsciously use the adjective “funky,” don’t they?
As a word that’s already woven into everyday life, what kind of image do you all have of “funk”?
Funk, whose prototype is said to have emerged in the 1960s, has continued to be loved into the 2020s, evolving in form and powering countless hit songs.
This time, we’ll bring you a wide array of classics—from foundational funk essentials to disco, mellow groove, and contemporary funk.
You just might encounter the destined masterpiece that awakens the funkiness sleeping inside you!
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists.
- [Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once
- Why Classic Disco Music Is Still Loved Today
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
- Summary of representative Western funk artists and groups
- A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- Dance music in Japanese (J-pop) that people in their 50s used to listen to. Nostalgic classic hits.
- [Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
- Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
Funky Mood: The Past and Present of Funk Music (21–30)
Sir DukeStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder continues to thrive as a vocalist in the funk world, which is filled with legendary heavyweights.
This song is featured in a Toyota car commercial, and the chorus overflows with joy and moving emotion.
The ensuing unison by the band, packed with an irresistible sense of groove, feels absolutely incredible.
Pick up the PiecesAverage White Band
Average White Band is a British funk band.
Formed in Scotland in 1971, they supported Eric Clapton’s concert in 1973 and moved to the United States in 1974.
“Pick Up the Pieces,” released in 1975, became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 in the U.S.
Even if you don’t recognize the title, most people will likely realize they know the song when they hear it.
Funky Feelings — The Past and Present of Funk Music (31–40)
Sweet NothingsFat Night
This is a track called “Sweet Nothing” released by Fat Night, a funk band from Chicago, a hotbed for bands.
The meticulously crafted instrumental arrangements showcase each member’s performance chops and musical range.
While the foundation lies in ’70s and ’80s funk, their unique arrangements elevate it into something special—distinct from a mere remix.
TightropeJanelle Monáe ft. Big Boi
A collaboration between American singer-songwriter Janelle Monáe—often called the queen of modern funk—and OutKast’s Big Boi.
It’s a funk track infused with R&B elements, released in 2010, which reached No.
20 on the Belgian charts.
FreedomJimi Hendrix
Known as the god of rock guitar, Jimi Hendrix was heavily influenced by the funk performed by Sly & The Family Stone, and in his later years he wrote many songs featuring choppy, funk-driven rhythm guitar (cutting-style playing).
FunknRoll!Prince
A funk track by the American artist Prince.
It is included on his 37th album, Art Official Age, released in 2014.
The album reached the Top 10 on charts around the world and hit No.
1 in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Brick houseCommodores
This groove-driven tune was performed by a funk band that was active in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s.
The band members met at a university in Alabama and began their activities there.
Their other songs also enjoyed wide exposure, including being used in films.