WE GOT THE FUNK!
BACKKGROUND
Funk is a genre that originated through African Americans in the mid/late 1960s. Black musicians created rhythmic, danceable new form of music through a mixture of soul, jazz, and R&B. Funk music has a strong focus on rhythmic groove of base line that is played by an electric bassist. In addition to that, a drummer/drumming part. What makes Funk different its focus on that sound, rather than the sound of melody or chord progression. Elements such as horns playing, rock-oriented horns, and vocal singing styles are all elements that also make Funk special.Along with the its new evolutional sound, African Americans used Funk to unify culture.
Funk music contained lyrics of pride! Black pride, unity, power, and optimism, all stories that Funk music told. Along with the good, Funk also told the whole story, including songs of disappointment and despair. Funk Music was so special because it was about the Black experience of dancing through the good and dancing through the bad.
Popular Funk Artists
James Brown
One of the most popular and influential funk artists is James Brown. He started off his musical career as a gospel singer. He became very known in 1960s. This was the year he was his most successful self. Also during the 60s he transitioned from Gospel music to funk music. To this day Brown holds the record for the most singles on the Billboard hot 100 chart. Some of his most popular songs include; “I Got You”, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World”, “Please Please Please”, and so many more.
P.Funk
P.Funk is a musical style/ group associated with George Clinton. The abbreviation has several different meanings such as, Parliament-Funkadelic, Psychedelic Funk, and Pure Funk. P.Funk was popular during the 1970s. Some prominent P.Funk artists include,Bernie Worrell, Bootsy Collins, George Clinton, Funkadelic, Eddie Hazel, and many more.
