“Superstition” by Wonder is one of the greatest funk songs ever. Released in 1972, it has an unforgettable groove, catchy rhythm, and energetic vibe. The funky clavinet riff is instantly recognizable.

The foundations of funk were laid down in the mid-1960s, when James Brown began to emphasize the first beat of each measure in his stage-tested and frenzy-inducing R&B songs. Before the decade’s end, ...

Instead of emphasizing chord changes and melody, funk accentuated heavily syncopated beats and rhythmic and repetitive bass lines.

The Red & Black is a 501c3 nonprofit. Please consider a one-time gift or become a monthly supporter. Cancel anytime. National Get Funky Day will be observed for the very first time on Thursday, Oct. 5 ...

(ThyBlackMan.com) When we talk about the DNA of hip-hop, three words always come up: James Brown. Breakbeats. From the moment DJs like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash first looped those funk grooves ...

And now it's time to get down, get down. In our studios, we have our friends Jasmine Garsd and Felix Contreras from NPRMusic's Alt.Latino, a show dedicated to Latin alternative music. They recently ...

Arlester "Dyke" Christian and his bandmates were packing the dance floor at one of their regular stomping grounds in Phoenix, the Elks Club on Seventh Avenue, when a man approached to ask whose song ...

“Two thousand miles I roam, just to make Madison my home.” —Clyde Stubblefield I never saw James Brown dance across the stage to Clyde Stubblefield’s funky beat, but I danced many times to that beat ...

For those of a certain age, the words “funk music” bring to mind some of the great acts of the 20th century’s second half. James Brown. Sly and the Family Stone. Ohio Players. The Isley Brothers.