Funkadelic is one of the most influential funk bands in history, and with a career spanning over four decades, they have become an icon of the genre. Here are 10 secrets about Funkadelic you may not know:
- Member Bernie Worrell was a keyboardist for the band but also wrote most of their songs and music. He had classical training from Julliard and is widely credited with helping to create the sound that Funkadelic is known for.
- Bassist Bootsy Collins was an original member of the band, joining in 1971 and playing on their first two albums. He later rejoined as part of George Clinton’s P-Funk All Stars, a collaboration between members of both Funkadlic and Parliament.
- The title of their first album, “Funkadelic,” was chosen by Clinton as a play on the words “funk” and “psychedelic.” He wanted to create an album that blended those two styles together, and it worked out perfectly.
- Their second album, “Free Your Mind… And Your Ass Will Follow,” was originally going to be titled “A Joyful Process.” Clinton thought it would confuse people, so he changed the title to something a bit more direct.
- Funkadelic’s music has been sampled by many hip hop artists over the years, including Dr. Dre, Public Enemy, and A Tribe Called Quest.
- The band is known for their outrageous live performances, which often include elaborate costumes and props.
- They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
- Their albums have had a lasting influence on funk music, inspiring countless other artists to explore the genre and creating their own unique sound.
- The band has released over 20 studio albums throughout their career.
- The members of Funkadelic have collaborated with a variety of other artists, including Parliament-Funkadelic offshoot Bootsy’s Rubber Band and Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante.
Funkadelic is truly an iconic band that has shaped the sound of funk music for generations to come. Their signature sound has been sampled, covered, and celebrated by musicians all over the world. No matter what style of music you’re into, there’s no denying the influence that Funkadelic had on modern popular music.