flash it up

Flash It Up: A History of Electro-Funk

Electro-funk, a genre that’s as much about the move as the groove, emerged in the late 70s and early 80s, a funky fusion of electronic sounds, hard-hitting basslines, and infectious rhythms. It’s a genre that’s as much about the energy as the music itself, a feeling that’s best captured by its iconic phrase: “flash it up!”

The Birth of a Genre:

Electro-funk was born out of the collision of funk’s raw energy with the evolving world of electronic music. Artists like Parliament/Funkadelic and George Clinton, already pioneers of experimental funk, incorporated synthesizers and drum machines into their sound, paving the way for a new era.

The Key Players:

• The Godfather: George Clinton, the visionary behind Parliament/Funkadelic, was a key figure in pushing funk’s boundaries. His use of synthesizers and robotic voices in his music influenced a generation of artists.

• The Master of the Groove: Bootsy Collins, known for his funky basslines and outlandish stage persona, helped solidify the electro-funk sound. His collaborations with Parliament/Funkadelic and his own solo projects cemented his place as a legend.

• The Electro-Funk Pioneers: Artists like Zapp, the Bar-Kays, and Shalamar embraced the electronic elements of the genre, creating catchy, high-energy tunes that took the dance floors by storm.

Funny Facts:

• George Clinton’s “Funkmobile”: In the 1970s, Clinton famously toured in a custom-built vehicle dubbed the “Funkmobile.” This psychedelically decorated bus was a rolling symbol of the genre’s eccentricity and extravagance.

• Bootsy Collins’ “Rubber Boots”: Bootsy’s trademark footwear was a pair of bright, rubber boots, a visual representation of his unique persona and infectious energy.

• Zapp’s “Rocket”: Zapp’s frontman Roger Troutman’s revolutionary “talk box” instrument (a device that allowed him to alter his voice) produced the signature “talking” sounds that made their music instantly recognizable.

The Legacy of Electro-Funk:

While electro-funk may not be as prevalent in the mainstream today, its influence is undeniable. The genre’s rhythmic energy, infectious melodies, and innovative sound have inspired generations of artists, from hip-hop and electronic dance music to modern funk and R&B.

Flash it up! The next time you hear a groove that makes you want to move your feet, remember the legacy of electro-funk, a genre that’s all about the feeling and the flash.