Exploring funk music resources can provide valuable insights into the genre’s rich history, influential artists, and the cultural impact it has had over the decades.
This is a collaboration with our Facebook group members. The team consists of Allan Gibson, Anne McMahon, Salim Srour, Tourpas Ioannis, and many more!
Gold Smoke…
Funk-a-Fried – Obatala
The track from the 1977 album. This album is known for blending elements of funk, soul, and Afrobeat music. The band Obatala was a Nigerian group led by the musician Waliou Jacques Daniel Isheola, and their music often incorporated traditional Yoruba rhythms and religious themes into a funk and Afrobeat sound.
Things Got To Get Better (Get Together) – Marva Whitney
The track was released in 1969 as a single on the King Records label. Marva Whitney was often associated with the James Brown Revue and worked closely with James Brown. She was known as “Soul Sister #1” and her performances were known for their high energy and showmanship.
Miss Fatback – Saundra Phillips
Saundra Phillips was an American soul singer who was active in the music industry during the 1970s. One of her notable songs is “Miss Fatback,” which was released in 1972 on the GSF Records label. The song showcases her soulful vocals and is an example of the type of music that was popular during that era.
C’mon Children – Earth, Wind & Fire
Released in 1971. The album marked the beginning of the band’s iconic career and showcased their unique blend of soul, funk, jazz, and R&B influences. “C’mon Children” is a part of this early catalog, and its inclusion on their debut album speaks to the band’s style and musical direction from the outset.
Some Kind of Fool – The Barons
From 1973. While The Barons might not have achieved mainstream fame, their music remains appreciated by enthusiasts of soul from that era. Unfortunately, there might not be extensive information available about The Barons, as they were likely a lesser-known vocal group from New Orleans, LA.
Love the Life You Live – Black Heat
The band was active during the 1970s and was known for their energetic and groove-oriented music. The song was featured on their self-titled debut album, “Black Heat,” which was released in 1972.
Getting the Corners – The T.S.U. Toronadoes
One of their well-known tracks and was released in 1969. The song showcases the band’s tight instrumentation, groovy rhythm, and lively horn section. With its infectious beat and lively atmosphere, the song is representative of the funk and soul sounds of that era.
Sweet Thing – Willie Tee
Born Wilson Turbinton, Willie Tee was known for his contributions to the New Orleans music scene and his versatile musical abilities. “Sweet Thing” is one of his notable tracks. It was released in the late 1960s and showcases his soulful vocals and a blend of funk and R&B sounds. Willie Tee’s music often encompassed a range of styles, and he was skilled as a vocalist, pianist, composer, and producer.
Rubber Lips – Young-Holt Unlimited
A song by the American jazz and soul instrumental musical group Young-Holt Unlimited. The group was formed by Eldee Young and Isaac Holt and was active during the 1960s and 1970s.
Anchors Away – Synod
Synod was created at Concordia Teachers College by three sophomores. The band had a few personnel changes in its first couple of years, but remained very stable for more than four decades. In the 1970s they released two 45 RPM singles and one full length album.
Give Me Your Love – Sisters Love
Sisters Love consisted of various members over the years, and they gained recognition for their energetic live shows and their ability to deliver soulful harmonies. The song was released in 1973.
I Got A Suspicion – Bobby Story
Bobby Patterson’s music often features his soulful vocals, and his skills as a songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer have allowed him to create a diverse and impressive body of work. “I Got a Suspicion” is a song by Bobby Story, an American R&B and soul singer. The track was released in 1962.
Car Wash – Rose Royce
Give It What You Can – The Meters
The 8th track from The Meters’ album “New Directions,” which was released in 1977. The Meters were known for their funk and soul music. The Meters are considered pioneers of funk music and have influenced countless artists across various genres. Their distinctive sound and tight rhythms have left a lasting impact on the world of music.
Reborn – Marilyn Barbarin
The track was released in 1972 on the AFO (All For One) Records label. Marilyn Barbarin is known for her soulful vocals, and “Reborn” is one of her notable songs. The track captures the essence of classic soul music from that era, with emotive vocals and a groove that’s typical of the soul and R&B genres.
Honeydripper – Delores Ealy & The Kenyattas
This version of “Honeydripper” would likely retain the R&B and blues elements of the original song while incorporating the unique style and interpretation of Delores Ealy and The Kenyattas.
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is – Jodi Gales
I Want You Back – Roddie Joy
Roddie Joy’s “I Want You Back” was released in 1963 and is considered a classic in the Northern Soul genre. It’s a catchy and upbeat track that gained popularity in the Northern Soul music scene in the UK.
Hold On – Judy Freeman, Blackrock
A disco group from the 1970s. This song is known for its disco and funk influences, which were popular during that era. It may be found on various disco and funk compilations or playlists from the 1970s.
The Playlist
- Funk-a-Fried – Obatala
- Things Got To Get Better (Get Together) – Marva Whitney
- Miss Fatback – Saundra Phillips
- C’mon Children – Earth, Wind & Fire
- Some Kind of Fool – The Barons
- Love the Life You Live – Black Heat
- Getting the Corners – The T.S.U. Toronadoes
- Sweet Thing – Willie Tee
- Rubber Lips – Young-Holt Unlimited
- Anchors Away – Synod
- Give Me Your Love – Sisters Love
- I Got A Suspicion – Bobby Story
- Car Wash – Rose Royce
- Give It What You Can – The Meters
- Reborn – Marilyn Barbarin
- Honeydripper – Delores Ealy & The Kenyattas
- Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is – Jodi Gales
- I Want You Back – Roddie Joy
- Hold On – Judy Freeman, Blackrock
Exploring funk music resources over the decades… by Funkologie on Mixcloud