Exploring the Contemporary Sounds of Funk Inspired Music

Funk music, a genre born out of the African-American community in the 1960s, retained its vibrant appeal over decades. Today, a diverse array of artists continue to produce music that draws from the soul-stirring rhythms and grooves that defined the original funk era. This article delves into the modern incarnations of this dynamic genre, uncovering a rich tapestry of artists who continue to make funk-inspired music.

Classic Artists Preserving Funk Traditions

Some artists have remained faithful to the roots of funk, continuing to churn out music that encapsulates the essence of this genre. Tower Of Power, Galactic, and George Porter Jr. are notable among those who carry the torch, with bands like Tower Of Power and Galactic delivering classic funk touches in their albums, while George Porter Jr. continues with his project Respect The Drum. Other names like Porter's Runnin' Pardners, Maceo Parker, and Fred Wesley remain influential, as does the old-school Pee Wee Ellis and the neo-soul ensemble Lettuce.

Modern Artists Keeping the Funk Alive

While some artists remain true to the tradition, others infuse old-school funk with modern elements, creating a unique sound that appeals to contemporary audiences. Mark Ronson, for instance, is known for his fusion of funk with electronic beats, as seen in his collaborations with Bruno Mars and D'Angelo. Lenny Kravitz, Bilal, and Maxwell each bring their own style to the table, blending funk with rock, soul, and RB. Additionally, Chico DeBarge and Van Hunt offer a more soulful take on funk, while Usher and Maroon 5 introduce it into mainstream pop.

Expanding the Funk Horizon

As funk continues to evolve, many artists are experimenting with new sounds, blending funk with electronic and jazz elements. Octave Cat and Even with only one album under their belt, they have a nice funk broadway selection with synths and acoustic instruments alike. Found them on the Various Artists music channel on YouTube. Their song SunSquabi is a standout, illustrating how funk can be seamlessly integrated with modern electronic sounds. Similarly, Breakestra and Snark Puppy are known for their avant-garde approach, blending jazz and funk with progressive elements. Other groups like Haiatus Koyote and Vulfpeck bring a fresh, modern twist to funk, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

Discovering New Faces in Funk

Moving away from the traditional framework, several contemporary bands and artists are exploring new dimensions of funk. Justice and Cassius, known for their vibrant electro and nu-disco, are Testifying cases of how funk can be revived in the electronic realm. French musicians, in particular, have been at the forefront of this movement, with artists like Cyril Neville and Janelle Monae often drawing from funk in their work. Jamiroquai and Incognito have also been praised for their innovative takes on funk, often incorporating jazz and rock influences. Lastly, Gota, with their unique sound, add another layer to the evolving landscape of funk.

Local Scenes and Hidden Gems

While many artists are making waves in the global music scene, the local music scene in cities like New York is also bustling. Charles Bradley, a soulful voice, brings a timeless feel to modern funk with his hit "How Long." Similarly, Aloe Blacc's "Green Lights," The Merrymakers' Orchestrina's "Act 3," AM's "Different Forces," and Shawn Lee's "There's a Lot" are testament to the dynamic local music scene. These hidden gems, playing constantly in underground jazz and funk venues, are a testament to the enduring spirit of funk.

Final Thoughts

Funk, a genre steeped in history and culture, continues to thrive. From old-school stalwarts to contemporary innovators, the genre is in good hands. With each new artist and band, funk finds new life, ensuring that its soulful rhythms and grooves continue to captivate listeners worldwide.