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!
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- 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 Feelings — The Past and Present of Funk Music (41–50)
King KuntaKendrick Lamar
A track released in 2015 by Kendrick Lamar.
It was inspired by Michael Jackson’s 1987 track “Smooth Criminal.” The music video, directed by Director X, was filmed in Compton, California, Kendrick’s hometown.
Jungle BoogieKool and The Gang
A track released in 1973 by Kool & the Gang.
It has been used in many forms of media, including Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film Pulp Fiction, and has been sampled in numerous tracks, such as Ice Cube’s 1990 track The Product.
Do It RogerRoger Troutman
The central member of Zapp was Roger Troutman.
He later debuted as a solo artist and became one of the figures leading disco-influenced funk from the 1980s onward.
He had many hits, and this is a classic track that showcases both its funk and disco flavors.
SuperflyCurtis Mayfield
Curtis Mayfield left behind numerous masterpieces, but many would probably consider the album Super Fly to be his pinnacle.
Although it was released as the soundtrack to the film of the same name, Super Fly, it’s packed with the kind of uniquely intelligent funk you can hear in this track.
Come And Get ItJohn Newman
John Newman is a British singer who debuted in 2013.
While his vocal style is heavily influenced by R&B singers of the 1960s, his sound incorporates a strong dose of funk elements.
This song was released as a single from his second album in 2015 and became a smash hit, reaching number five on the UK charts.
SupernovaSunni Colón
This irresistibly mysterious track is “Supernova” by the American singer-songwriter Sunni Colón.
From the guitar riffs to the piano parts, it’s a meticulously arranged song that reveals new details with every listen.
It starts mellow and gradually pulls you into the groove as it progresses—an addictive tune indeed.
High On YouSly Stone
Sly Stone, who was the leader of Sly & The Family Stone, continued to thrive as a solo artist after the band broke up.
He created a variety of music, including introspective Black music, but this track is famous as a funk number.