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.
- [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
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- R&B Masterpieces in Western Music: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics [2025]
- Back to those nostalgic days… Classic and hit Western songs of the 1960s
- Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
Funky Mood: The Past and Present of Funk Music (21–30)
ManeaterDaryl Hall & John Oates
Although they were a mixed band of white and Black members, their music leaned heavily into soul and funk.
Their melodies were exceptionally strong, which explains their frequent appearances on the pop charts.
On top of that, their Black music–influenced rhythms were solid, making them a band that wouldn’t feel out of place in the 1980s “urban contemporary” (so-called ‘Black contemporary’) category.
The PathRalph MacDonald
Ralph MacDonald, an American artist who blends the Caribbean sun with New York’s urban sensibility.
His 1978 album The Path features an over 17-minute instrumental suite of the same name that is truly a grand epic woven in sound.
Beginning in Africa, then crossing the Caribbean to the American continent, the music’s journey is vividly drawn through the lively interplay of steel pan and congas.
There are no lyrics, yet the groove clearly conveys the birth of new music born from the mingling of diverse cultures.
This innovative fusion of jazz, funk, and Caribbean music is highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the profound depth that music can hold.
Funky Feelings — The Past and Present of Funk Music (31–40)
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.
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.