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 Feelings — The Past and Present of Funk Music (41–50)
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.
Valdez in the CountryCold Blood
It’s old-school funk from the ’70s, but I felt it was incredibly warm, almost shining.
The grooving rhythm, the horn-led melody, and the breezy guitar and percussion vibe made me realize this style has been passed down for ages, and it really moved me.
It’s got both a rugged heft and a welcoming warmth—I’ve come to love this funk a lot.
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.
Get Down On ItKool and The Gang
They’re a group that reached their peak in the 1980s.
Although they went through a slump for a while, they made a comeback by adding a vocalist.
Around the time this song was released, they were in their prime, churning out pop tracks.
It was also used in commercials, so many people have probably heard it.
Get Down On ItKool and The Gang
Kool & the Gang is an American soul and funk band.
They debuted in 1969 and were featured on the soundtrack of the film Saturday Night Fever, gaining fame as a disco-funk band.
Get Down On It is a hit number that reached No.
10 on the pop chart and No.
4 on the Black chart in 1982.