Saint Claude Dash – Gitkin
A Trip Through Psychedelic World Funk: A Groovy History
Get ready to groove, baby!
Psychedelic World Funk, a genre that’s like a cosmic disco ball shattering into a thousand kaleidoscopic pieces, is a vibrant blend of funk, soul, psychedelic rock, and global rhythms. This musical melting pot emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s, fueled by the revolutionary spirit of the time and the psychedelic exploration of the mind.
From Afrobeat to Space Funk:
Think Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, with its pulsating rhythms and politically charged lyrics, infused with the mind-bending experimentation of bands like Funkadelic and Sly & the Family Stone. Throw in the hypnotic grooves of Indian raga, the hypnotic chanting of Tibetan monks, and the soulful melodies of Latin rhythms, and you’ve got the basic recipe for Psychedelic World Funk.
Funky Pioneers and Their Tales:
- **Fela Kuti**: Not just a musician, but a political activist, Fela Kuti’s music was a powerful voice against corruption and oppression. He even declared his own republic, “Kalakuta Republic,” within his compound! Talk about a funky rebel!
- **Sun Ra**: A true space traveler in spirit, Sun Ra was convinced he was from another planet, claiming to have been transported to Earth as a baby. His music, a mix of jazz, soul, and avant-garde experimentation, reflected his cosmic vision.
- **George Clinton**: The mastermind behind Funkadelic and Parliament, George Clinton was a master of the outrageous. He famously wore a cape made of real hair and once claimed to have invented “aquatic funk”! His music was a wild fusion of funk, soul, and psychedelic rock, a true testament to the spirit of the era.
- **Sly Stone**: A pioneer of funk and soul, Sly Stone’s music was a heady mix of funky rhythms, soulful vocals, and psychedelic influences. He was known for his flamboyant style, wearing outrageous outfits and sporting a distinctive Afro.
The Groove Goes On:
While its peak was in the 70s, the spirit of psychedelic world funk continues to influence musicians today. From the funky grooves of the Red Hot Chilli Peppers to the afrobeat-inspired rhythms of Antibalas, the psychedelic world funk legacy lives on.
So put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and get ready to lose yourself in the groove. This music will take you on a journey to the outer limits of funk!