[Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once

Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)Sly & The Family Stone

Sly & The Family Stone – Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)

Released in 1969 as a double A-side single along with “Everybody Is a Star,” the song reached No.

1 on the Billboard chart in 1970.

Janet Jackson’s 1989 hit “Rhythm Nation” samples the groove from this song’s breakdown section.

The PaybackJames Brown

James Brown – The Payback

The Payback, a signature work by legendary American artist James Brown, was originally produced as a film soundtrack and is also known as a towering landmark of funk.

The title track has been sampled countless times in later hip-hop, and its influence can be felt across a wide variety of songs.

The massive groove born from the band’s perfectly tight performance and Brown’s soul-baring shouts deliver an overwhelming impact.

Letting yourself be carried away by the flood of intricately interwoven rhythms and savoring the tension that runs through the entire piece are key ways to enjoy this album.

Immerse yourself in this music experience brimming with anger and power from the Godfather of Funk!

Theme from ShaftIsaac Hayes

Theme From Shaft (Remastered 2009)

Isaac Hayes’s signature work—and arguably his most famous—Shaft.

Created as a film soundtrack, it won an Academy Award and has been sampled frequently in later hip-hop.

Packed with thrilling elements like funky rhythms, jazzy horns, and sweeping strings, this album is a tour de force.

Above all, its defining feature is the rock-solid groove that runs through the entire record.

While it’s easy to focus on the memorable vocals of the title theme, be sure to pay attention to the cool, taut tension of the instrumental tracks as well.

Pieces of a ManGil Scott-Heron

Gil Scott Heron – The Revolution Will Not Be Televised

Gil Scott-Heron, the American artist often called the “Godfather of Rap,” fused poetry with soul and funk to create a unique style.

His Pieces of a Man, released in 1971, is an early masterpiece—an essential work not only in funk and soul, but, as noted, in the history of hip-hop as well.

Often described as progressive soul, its melodious yet innovative sound provides a vivid stage for Scott-Heron’s lyrics, showcasing his brilliance as a wordsmith—an approach that has perhaps been even more appreciated in the present day than at the time of its release.

It may feel a bit challenging at first, but there are tracks where he delivers assured, expressive vocals.

If you’re into funk—or if you’re a hip-hop listener—definitely lend an ear to Scott-Heron’s voice, his words, and his sound.

I’m Every WomanChaka Khan

Chaka Khan – I’m Every Woman on Jimmy Kimmel

Often hailed as the Queen of R&B, Chaka Khan has reigned over the scene since the 1970s.

Her overwhelming vocal prowess and tireless activity have continued well past 2020, profoundly influencing generations of artists.

Here, we introduce her 1978 solo debut album, Chaka.

From the famed dance classic “I’m Every Woman” to tender ballads and disco tunes, her innate talent shines across every style, leaving you breathless.

Produced under the flawless sonic direction of Arif Mardin and featuring an all-star lineup of top-tier musicians, it’s a truly luxurious record.

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