drum funk

Drum Funk: A Groove That’s Got Soul

Drum funk, a funky fusion of soul, jazz, and hard-hitting drum rhythms, emerged in the late 1960s, leaving a legacy that’s still felt today. It’s a groove that’s all about feel, about letting the beat take over, and about celebrating the power of the rhythm section.

The Roots of the Funk

Drum funk wasn’t born overnight. It was the result of a confluence of musical trends, each adding its own flavour to the mix:

• Soul’s Soulful Swagger: Soul music, with its strong vocals and emphasis on groove, laid the foundation for drum funk’s infectious energy.
• Jazz’s Improvisational Flair: Jazz brought a sense of improvisation and rhythmic complexity to the table, giving drum funk its dynamic feel.
• The Rise of the Rhythm Section: The 1960s saw the rise of the rhythm section, with drummers and bassists becoming increasingly prominent in popular music. This paved the way for the rhythmic focus of drum funk.

Drum Funk Pioneers:

• James Brown: The Godfather of Funk! Brown’s relentless, driving rhythms and his “Funky Drummer” drum break remain iconic in the genre.
• Sly & The Family Stone: This funk supergroup blended soul, rock, and psychedelic elements, with their hit “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” being a classic example of drum funk.
• The Meters: This New Orleans band, with their signature funky bass lines and tight grooves, helped define the sound of drum funk.
• Parliament/Funkadelic: Led by the visionary George Clinton, this group took funk to new heights with its psychedelic and socially conscious lyrics.

Funny Facts & Drum Funk Delights

Drum funk is not just about the music, it’s about the personalities and quirks of its creators:

• James Brown’s “Funky Drummer” was actually a mistake. The session drummer, Clyde Stubblefield, got carried away with his improvisation and forgot to stop. A happy accident that birthed a legendary drum break.
• Sly Stone was known for his eccentric personality. He once wore a crown of thorns during a concert, claiming it was “for the people.”
• The Meters’ bass player, George Porter Jr., was known for his laid-back demeanor. Once, during a live performance, he was seen calmly reading a book while the band played.

Drum Funk’s Enduring Legacy:

Drum funk’s influence can be felt in countless genres, from hip hop and electronic music to modern soul and pop. Its signature grooves and infectious energy continue to inspire musicians and dancers alike.

Drum funk is more than just a genre. It’s a state of mind, a way of life, a celebration of rhythm, and a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are just plain funky.