Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
Even if you don’t actually listen to funk as a music genre, many people unconsciously use the adjective “funky,” don’t they?
As a word that’s already woven into everyday life, what kind of image do you all have of “funk”?
Funk, whose prototype is said to have emerged in the 1960s, has continued to be loved into the 2020s, evolving in form and powering countless hit songs.
This time, we’ll bring you a wide array of classics—from foundational funk essentials to disco, mellow groove, and contemporary funk.
You just might encounter the destined masterpiece that awakens the funkiness sleeping inside you!
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- Recommended Japanese funk bands. Funky Japanese artists.
- [Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once
- Why Classic Disco Music Is Still Loved Today
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
- Summary of representative Western funk artists and groups
- A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- Dance music in Japanese (J-pop) that people in their 50s used to listen to. Nostalgic classic hits.
- [Japanese R&B] Notable Classics & New Tracks, Representative Songs of Japanese R&B
- Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
Funky Feelings — The Past and Present of Funk Music (41–50)
CallingQUIN
This is a song called “Calling,” released by Quinn, a singer-songwriter from California.
The ethereal synthesizer sounds make you feel as if you’re in a dream.
The sounds never clash, and the multi-layered vocal harmonies showcase her high level of musicality.
Sir DukeStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder continues to thrive as a vocalist in the funk world, which is filled with legendary heavyweights.
This song is featured in a Toyota car commercial, and the chorus overflows with joy and moving emotion.
The ensuing unison by the band, packed with an irresistible sense of groove, feels absolutely incredible.
Lucky StrikeBerhana
This is a song called “Lucky Strike” by Belhanna, a singer-songwriter from Atlanta, USA.
The retro drum beats and synthesizer tones are essential elements of the currently booming city pop sound.
His soulful vocals also match the refined sound of this track perfectly!
Valdez in the CountryCold Blood
It’s old-school funk from the ’70s, but I felt it was incredibly warm, almost shining.
The grooving rhythm, the horn-led melody, and the breezy guitar and percussion vibe made me realize this style has been passed down for ages, and it really moved me.
It’s got both a rugged heft and a welcoming warmth—I’ve come to love this funk a lot.
Come And Get ItJohn Newman
John Newman is a British singer who debuted in 2013.
While his vocal style is heavily influenced by R&B singers of the 1960s, his sound incorporates a strong dose of funk elements.
This song was released as a single from his second album in 2015 and became a smash hit, reaching number five on the UK charts.