The Bar-Kays - Too Hot to Stop

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of The Bar-Kays’ 6th Studio Album “Too Hot to Stop” Originally Released on October 1, 1976.

“Too Hot to Stop” is the sixth studio album by American funk group The Bar-Kays and their debut album for Mercury Records released in 1976.

The album peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #69 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Shake Your Rump to the Funk", "Too Hot to Stop" and "Spellbound".

"Shake Your Rump to the Funk" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and #23 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Too Hot to Stop" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and #74 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Spellbound" peaked at #29 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Too Hot To Stop” is considered by funk fans to be one of the very best Bar-Kays albums.

The album’s content inspired George Clinton, leader of Parliament-Funkadelic, to invite the Bar-Kays to be one of the opening acts on his band's legendary 1976-77 P-Funk Earth Tour.

 Track-listing

1. Too Hot To Stop

2. Cozy

3. Bang, Bang (Stick 'Em Up)

4. Spellbound

5. Shake Your Rump to the Funk

6. You're So Sexy

7. Summer of Our Love

8. Whitehouseorgy

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Sly & the Family Stone - A Whole New Thing

Today Marks The 58th Anniversary of Sly & The Family Stone’s Debut Studio Album “A Whole New Thing” Originally Released October 1, 1967.

“A Whole New Thing” is the debut studio album by funk/soul band Sly and the Family Stone, released in 1967 on Epic/CBS Records.

The album was released to mixed criticism and failed to make an impact from a commercial standpoint and did not chart.

“A Whole New Thing” was recorded live in the studio instead of being overdubbed and featured less of a pop feel than later releases such as Dance to the Music and Stand!.

Sly Stone shared lead vocals with his brother Freddie Stone, bassist Larry Graham and his little sister Rose Stone would not join the band until they began work on Dance to the Music.

Track-listing

1. Underdog – 3:59

2. If This Room Could Talk – 3:00

3. Run, Run, Run – 3:14

4. Turn Me Loose – 1:52

5. Let Me Hear It from You – 3:35

6. Advice – 2:22

7. Cannot Make It – 3:20

8. Trip to Your Heart – 3:43

9. I Hate to Love Her – 3:30

10. Bad Risk – 3:04

11. That Kind of Person – 4:25

12. Dog – 3:10

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Kool & the Gang - Celebrate!

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Kool &The Gang’s 12th Studio Album “Celebrate!” Originally Released on September 29, 1980.

“Celebrate!” is the twelfth studio album by American band Kool & the Gang. Released in 1980 on De-Lite Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard on the Hot Black Singles chart, and at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Three songs were released from this album "Celebration",

"Celebration" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, on the Dance Club Song’s chart and on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Take It to the Top” peaked at #1 on the Dance Club Song’s chart and at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Jones vs. Jones” reached #33 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #39 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Celebration" is Kool & The Gang’s most successful song the song has been used as an anthem in sports arenas as teams celebrate their victory and championships worldwide the song still receives heavy rotation today over four decades later.

The album also marked the end of an era for the band in which they totally abandoned their funk roots and embraced their pop music success.

“Celebrate!” was certified platinum in the United States by the RIAA.

Track-listing

1. Celebration

2. Jones vs. Jones

3. Take It to the Top

4. Morning Star

5. Love Festival

6. Just Friends

7. Night People

8. Love Affair

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Stevie Wonder - Hotter than July

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Stevie Wonder’s 19th Studio Album “Hotter than July” Originally Released on “September 29, 1980”

“Hotter than July” is the nineteenth studio album by American singer, songwriter, and musician Stevie Wonder, released in 1980 on Tamla Records.

The album peaked #3 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Five songs were released as singles from the album, "Master Blaster (Jammin')", "I Ain't Gonna Stand for It", "Lately", "Happy Birthday" and

"Master Blaster (Jammin')" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #69 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"I Ain't Gonna Stand for It" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Lately" reached #29 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #64 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Happy Birthday" reached #70 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Did I Hear You Say You Love Me" reached #74 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 1981.

The album was nominated for Favorite Soul/R&B Album at the 1982 American Music Awards.

Track-listing

1. Did I Hear You Say You Love Me

2. All I Do

3. Rocket Love

4. I Ain't Gonna Stand for It

5. As If You Read My Mind

6. Master Blaster (Jammin')

7. Do Like You

8. Cash in Your Face

9. Lately

10. Happy Birthday

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Tom Browne - Rockin' Radio

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Tom Browne’s 5th Studio Album “Rockin' Radio” Originally Released on September 29, 1983.

“Rockin' Radio” is the fifth studio album by Jazz trumpeter Tom Browne, released in 1983 by Arista Records.

The album reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #147 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

“Rockin' Radio” reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #33 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Cruisin'" reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, and at #63 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Michael Jonzun and Maurice Starr of The Jonzun Crew both contributed to writing the albums title track “Rockin' Radio”.

Tracklist

1. Rockin' Radio

2. Cruisin’

3. Turn It Up (Come on Y'all)

4. Angeline

5. Brighter Tomorrow

6. Never My Love

7. Mr. Business

8. Feel Like Making Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Bar-Kays - Contagious

Today Marks The 38th Anniversary of The Bar-Kays’ 16th Studio Album “Contagious” Originally Released on September 28, 1987.

“Contagious” is the sixteenth studio album by Memphis, Tennessee funk band the Bar-Kays, released in 1987 on Mercury Records.

The album reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart and at #110 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

Two songs were released from the album "Certified True" and "Don't Hang Up".

"Certified True" peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Don't Hang Up" reached #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Certified True

2. Don't Hang Up

3. Many Mistakes

4. Freak City U.S.A.

5. Contagious

6. Something In The Air

7. This Could Be The Night

8. Time Out

9. Touch

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of Life

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Stevie Wonders’ 18th Studio Album “Songs in the Key of Life” Originally Released on September 28, 1976.

“Songs in the Key of Life” is the eighteenth studio album by American singer, songwriter and musician Stevie Wonder released in 1976 on Tamla Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, becoming only the third album to achieve that feat, and the first by an American artist.

Five songs were released as singles from the album "I Wish" , "Isn't She Lovely", "Sir Duke", "Another Star" and "As".

"I Wish" peaked at #1 on the U.S.Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Isn't She Lovely" reached #23 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

"Sir Duke" peaked at #1 on the U.S.Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Another Star" reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #32 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"As" reached #36 on both the U.S.Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. Black Singles chart.

The album was certified diamond in the United States selling 5,000,000^ copies.

The album won Album of the Year at the 19th Grammy Awards and in 2002, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

In 2005 it was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, which deemed it "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

“Songs in the Key of Life” was voted number 89 in Colin Larkin's All Time Top 1000 Albums and was ranked number 4 on Rolling Stone's 2020 list of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time".

Track-listing

1. Love's in Need of Love Today

2. Have a Talk with God

3. Village Ghetto Land

4. Contusion (instrumental)

5. Sir Duke

6. I Wish

7. Knocks Me Off My Feet

8. Pastime Paradise

9. Summer Soft

10. Ordinary Pain

11. Isn't She Lovely

12. Joy Inside My Tears

13. Black Man

14. Ngiculela – Es Una Historia – I Am Singing

15. If It's Magic

16. As

17. Another Star

18. Saturn

19. Ebony Eyes

20. All Day Sucker

21. Easy Goin' Evening (My Mama's Call)(instrumental)

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

Earth Wind & Fire - Spirit

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Earth, Wind & Fire’s 7th Studio Album “Spirit” Originally Released on September 28, 1976.

“Spirit” is the seventh studio album by American R&B funk band Earth, Wind & Fire released in 1976 on Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #2 on both of the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Getaway", "On Your Face" and "Saturday Nite".

"Getaway" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart and at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"On Your Face" reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart.

"Saturday Nite" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Songs chart and at #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The song "Spirit" was intended to uplift Stepney's spirit and to show all the gratitude that Earth, Wind & Fire had towards him. However, Stepney never got to hear the song. Maurice White spoke to Stepney on the morning of May 17, 1976, but later that day, Earth, Wind & Fire keyboardist Larry Dunn received a phone call, informing him that Stepney had died of a heart attack.

The album was certified Double Platinum in the United States by the RIAA.

The album was produced by Maurice White and Charles Stepney.

Track-listing

1. Getaway

2. On Your Face

3. Imagination

4. Spirit

5. Saturday Nite

6. Earth, Wind & Fire

7. Departure

8. Biyo

9. Burnin' Bush

10. Saturday Nite (Alternate Mix)

11. Seraphim

12. Imagination (Angels Mix)

13. Departure (The Traveler)

14. African Symphony

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Brass Construction - Brass Construction III

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Brass Construction’s 3rd Studio Album “Brass Construction III” originally Released Released on September 28, 1977.

“Brass Construction III” is the third studio album by funk-disco band Brass Construction, released in 1977 on United Artists Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #66 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "We", “L-O-V-E-U”

"We" reached #37 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco charts.

“L-O-V-E-U” reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts, and at #104 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Celebrate" reached #77 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

The album “Brass Construction III” was certified gold in the United States by the RIAA.

"Brass Construction III" is considered a classic disco album and is often cited as an example of the genre's peak in the late 1970s.

Track-listing

1. We

2. L-O-V-E-U

3. Happy People

4. Celebrate

5. Top Of The World

6. Yesterday

7. Wake Up

8. Get It Together

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Bell & James - Only Make Believe

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Bell & James’ 2nd Studio Album “Only Make Believe” Originally Released on September 28, 1979.

“Only Make Believe” is the second studio album by Philadelphia musical group Bell & James, released in 1979 by A&M Records.

The album reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at charted at #125 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album, "Shakedown" and the album’s title track "Only Make Believe".

"Shakedown" reached #65 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

"Only Make Believe" reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

Track-listing

All tracks are written by Bell & James.

1. Shakedown

2. (Babe) You Don't Love Me Like You Should

3. Only Make Believe

4. Stay

5. Say It's Gonna Last Forever

6. Laughing in the Face of Love

7. Nobody Knows It

8. Fare Thee Well

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Tom Browne - Tommy Gun

Today Marks The 41st Anniversary of Tom Browne’s 7th Studio Album “Tommy Gun” Originally Released on September 27, 1984.

“Tommy Gun” is the 7th Studio album by jazz trumpeter Tom Browne released in 1984 on Arista Records.

The album reached #22 on the U.S. Billboard Jazz Album charts, at #49 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart.

The song "Secret Fantasy" was released as the album’s single it reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Other album standouts are "Loop," and "Station Break" for their groovy beats and inventive use of samples and melodies.

“Tommy Gun” was the second and last album Tom Browne recorded for Arista Records, and the last album to reach the Billboard charts.

Tracklist

1. Loop

2. Station Break

3. Secret Fantasy

4. Tommy Gun

5. Break Out

6. Wee Out

7. Hit Man

8. Free And Easy

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkogy

 

The Jacksons - Triumph

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of The Jacksons’ 14th Studio Album “Triumph” Originally Released on September 26, 1980.

“Triumph” is the fourteenth studio album by the Jacksons, released in 1980 by Epic Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's charts, and at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Four songs were released as singlesl from the album "Lovely One", "Heartbreak Hotel", "Can You Feel It", and "Walk Right Now".

"Lovely One" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Heartbreak Hotel" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Can You Feel It" reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #77 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Walk Right Now" reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #73 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

“Triumph” was the Jacksons' first album to reach number-one on the US Billboard R&B Albums chart since Maybe Tomorrow in 1971.

The album sold over three million copies worldwide, it went platinum in the United States by the RIAA selling over one million copies n the country.

The album was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1981.

Track-list

1. Can You Feel It

2. Lovely One

3. Your Ways

4. Everybody

5. Heartbreak Hotel

6. Time Waits for No One

7. Walk Right Now

8. Give It Up

9. Wondering Who

10. This Place Hotel (single version)

11. Walk Right Now (John Luongo disco mix)

12. Walk Right Now (John Luongo instrumental mix)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Cameo - Ugly Ego

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Cameo’s 3rd Studio Album “Ugly Ego” Originally Released on September 25, 1978.

“Ugly Ego” is the third studio album by American funk band Cameo, released in 1978 on Chocolate City Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #88 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Give Love a Chance" and "Insane".

"Give Love a Chance" reached #76 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Insane" reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

This album is often paired with the digitally remastered Secret Omen (1979), which featured their first R&B hits, and some reviewers suggest Ugly Ego is a vital early work for fans interested in the band's evolution. 

Track-listing

1. I'll Be with You

2. Insane

3. Give Love a Chance

4. I Want You

5. Ugly Ego

6. Anything You Wanna Do

7. Friend to Me

8. Two of Us

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Captain Sky - Pop Goes the Captain

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Captain Sky’s Sophomore Studio Album “Pop Goes the Captain” Originally Released on September 25, 1979.

“Pop Goes the Captain” is the second studio album by Captain Sky released in 1979 on AVI Records.

The album reached #49 on the U.S. Billboard Black Albums chart.

The song “Moonchild “ was released as singles from the album it reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart and at #76 on the U.S. Billboard Club Dance Songs chart.

The album features a large ensemble of Chicago studio musicians, including horn, string, and percussion players, and includes tracks like "Moonchild," "Fearless," and "Ker-Runch". 

Track-listing

1. Moonchild

2. Fearless (In The Pocket)

3. Cream & Sugar

4. Rebirth

5. Hero

6. Ker-Runch

7. Double You S-K-Y

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Temptations - Puzzle People

Today Marks The 56th Anniversary of The Temptations 11th Studio Album “Puzzle People” Originally Released on September 23, 1969.

“Puzzle People” is the eleventh studio album by Detroit, Michigan soul, funk quintet The Temptations released in 1969 on Gordy Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Albums chart, and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs charts.

The song "Don't Let the Joneses Get You Down" was released as a single from the album. The song peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Rhythm & Blues Singles chart, and at #20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"I Can't Get Next to You" was released as the second single from the album it peaked at #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard R&B, and the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

“Puzzle People” was released simultaneously with Together, a duets album of covers by the Temptations and labelmates Diana Ross & the Supremes.

The Norman Whitfield-produced studio album continue with the psychedelic soul-inspired sound that was introduced from the Temptations previous album “Cloud Nine”. Although a few straightforward soul ballads are present, the album is primarily composed of Sly & the Family Stone/James Brown-derived proto-funk tracks.

Track-listing

All selections produced by Norman Whitfield.

1. I Can't Get Next to You

2. Hey Jude

3. Don't Let the Joneses Get You Down

4. Message from a Black Man

5. It's Your Thing

6. Little Green Apples

7. You Don't Love Me No More

8. Since I've Lost You

9. Running Away (Ain't Gonna Help You)

10. That's the Way Love Is

11. Slave

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Funkadelic - One Nation Under a Groove

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Funkadelic’s 10th Studio Album “One Nation Under a Groove” Originally Released on September 22, 1978.

“One Nation Under a Groove” is the tenth studio album by American funk rock band Funkadelic, released in 1978, on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, #16 on the Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts. The album also reached #56 on the UK Albums Charts.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "One Nation Under a Groove" and

"One Nation Under a Groove" the album’s title track peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #28 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #31 on the U.S. Billboard US Dance Club Songs chart. The song also peaked at #9 on the UK Singles chart.

"Cholly (Funk Getting Ready to Roll!)" was the album’s second single it reached #43 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was the first album to include keyboardist and frequent songwriter Walter "Junie" Morrison.

The album was certified platinum in the United States by the RIAA.

“One Nation Under a Groove” was Funkadelic's most commercially successful album, It was praised by critics, and appears in several "best album" lists.

The album was ranked number 177 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time in both 2003 and 2012 editions, before moving to number 360 in the 2020 edition.

The album is listed as one of the 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.

Track-listing

1. One Nation Under a Groove

2. Groovallegiance

3. Who Says a Funk Band Can't Play Rock?!

4. Promentalshitbackwashpsychosis Enema Squad (The Doo Doo Chasers)

5. nto You

6. Cholly (Funk Getting Ready To Roll!)

7. Maggot Brain/Chant (Think It Ain't Illegal Yet!)(Live)

8. Lunchmeataphobia (Think! It Ain't Illegal Yet!)

9. P.E. Squad/Doo Doo Chasers

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Roy Ayers - You Send Me

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Roy Ayers’ 20th Studio Album “ You Send Me” Originally Released on September 21, 1978.

“You Send Me” is the twentieth studio album by American vibraphonist and Jazz-funk composer Roy Ayers released in 1978 on Polydor Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #48 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The song "Get On Up, Get On Down" was the album’s lead single, It reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard 56 on the Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album’s title track "You Send Me" was very popular on major urban radio stations across America and overseas ironically the song wasn’t released as a single commercially.

Track List:

1. You Send Me

2. I Wanna Touch You Baby

3. Can't You See Me

4. Get On Up Get On Down

5. Everytime I See You

6. Rhythm

7. And Don't You Say No

8. It Ain't Your Sign It's Your Mind

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Funkadelic - Tales of Kidd Funkadelic

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Funkadelic’s 8th Studio Album “Tales of Kidd Funkadelic “ Originally Released on September 21, 1976.

“Tales of Kidd Funkadelic” is the eighth studio album by the band Funkadelic, released in 1976 on Westbound Records.

The album reached #14 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #103 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The song "Undisco Kidd" was released as the albums single it reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #102 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The name Kidd Funkadelic is the nickname for P-Funk guitarist Michael Hampton.

Two tracks from Tales of Kidd Funkadelic, the single “Undisco Kidd” and the party anthem “Take Your Dead Ass Home!” have been staples in the band’s live performances since the album’s 1976 release, and can be heard on the 1977 Parliament concert album Live: P-Funk Earth Tour.

The album opener “Butt-To-Buttresuscitation” and the song “I’m Never Gonna Tell It” were included in the band’s live shows during the early 2000s.

The song "Let's Take It to the People" has been sampled by hip-hop band A Tribe Called Quest for their song "Everything Is Fair", on their album The Low End Theory.

Track-listing

1. Butt-to-Butresuscitation

2. Let's Take It to the People

3. Undisco Kidd

4. Take Your Dead Ass Home! (Say Som'n Nasty)

5. I'm Never Gonna Tell It

6. Tales of Kidd Funkadelic (Opusdelite Years)

7. How Do Yeaw View You?

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Funkadelic - Uncle Jam Wants You

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Funkadelic's 11Th Studio Album "Uncle Jam Wants" Originally Released September 21, 1979.

“Uncle Jam Wants You” is the eleventh studio album by American funk rock band Funkadelic.

The album was originally released by Warner Bros. Records on September 21, 1979, and was later reissued on CD by Charly Groove Records and Priority Records.

The album peaked at #18 on the US Billboard 200 and #2 on the US Billboard Top R&B Albums charts.

"Uncle Jam Wants You" was the second Funkadelic album to be certified gold.

Funkadelic released two singles from the "Uncle Jam Wants You" album, The first single was "(Not Just) Knee Deep".

The song peaked at #77 on Billboard's Top 200 and #4 on the US Billboard Top R&B Albums charts.

The second single "Uncle Jam" failed to chart on any of Billboard's singles charts.

The album was produced by George Clinton under the alias Dr. Funkenstein. It is the first Funkadelic album since America Eats Its Young in 1972 not to sport a cover illustrated by Funkadelic artist Pedro Bell, though Bell did provide artwork for the album’s back cover and interior.

The album had a profound influence on the West Coast hip-hop scene, especially the legendary DJ organization known as Uncle Jamm's Army.

Samples of the 15-minute cut "(Not Just) Knee Deep" can be heard in De La Soul's "Me Myself and I" (1989), the Teddy Riley-produced "Get Away," and several of Dr. Dre's productions.

Tracklisting

1. Freak Of The Week

2. (Not Just) Knee Deep

3. Uncle Jam

4. Field Maneuvers

5. Holly Wants To Go To California

6. Foot Soldiers (Star-Spangled Funky)

 

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

Johnny Guitar Watson - Ain’t That a Bitch

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Johnny "Guitar" Watson’s 6th Studio Album “Ain’t That a Bitch” Originally Released on September 19, 1976.

“Ain’t That a Bitch” is sixth studio album by blues, funk and rock musician Johnny "Guitar" Watson released in 1976 on DJM Records.

The album reached #52 on the U. S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Two songs were released from the album as singles “I Need It” and “Superman Lover”.

“I Need It” reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and #101 just below the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Superman Lover” reached #19 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and #101 just below the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Ain’t That a Bitch” was Johnny Watson's first successful funk album and contains a few of his best-known funk songs.

The album was certified gold in the United States by the RIAA for sales of more than 500,000 copies.

Several tracks from the album have been sampled by other artists including Redman, Ghostface Killah. Mad Skillz, Lady of Rage, Ice Cube and others.

Redman sampled the song "I Want to Ta-Ta You Baby" for his song "Sooperman Luva II" from his album Dare Iz a Darkside and "Superman Lover" for his song "A Day of Sooperman Lover" from the album Whut? Thee Album.

Other songs include:

"Supa GFK" by Ghostface Killah from the album The Big Doe Rehab

The Nod Factor" by Mad Skillz from the album From Where???

"Afro Puffs" by Lady of Rage from the soundtrack of Above the Rim

"The Predator" by Ice Cube from the album The Predator

Track-listing

1. I Need It

2. I Want to Ta-Ta You Baby

3. Superman Lover

4. Ain't That a Bitch

5. Since I Met You Baby

6. We're No Exception

7. Won't You Forgive Me Baby

8. Funkula (bonus track)

9. Follow Me (bonus track)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Teena Marie - Robbery

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Teena Marie’s 5th Studio Album “Robbery” Originally Released on September 18, 1983.

“Robbery” is the fifth studio album by American singer-songwriter Teena Marie, released in 1983 on Epic Records.

The album reached #13 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #119 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Fix It", "Midnight Magnet" and "Dear Lover".

"Fix It" reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #41 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Midnight Magnet" reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Dear Lover" reached #77 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album was released after a two year hiatus after Teena Marie got into a heated legal battle with Motown Records over her contract and disagreements about releasing her new material. The lawsuit resulted in "The Brockert Initiative", which made it illegal for a record company to keep an artist under contract without releasing new material for that artist. In such instances, artists are able to sign and release with another label instead of being held back by an unsupportive one.

The album was written and produced by Marie herself and features contributions from Patrice Rushen, Paulinho da Costa, and Steve Ferrone among others. However, the album did not repeat the success of her last Motown release It Must Be Magic in 1981.

In 2012, the album was re-released in a remastered and expanded CD edition containing four additional tracks.

Track-listing

1. Robbery

2. Playboy

3. Shadow Boxing

4. Midnight Magnet

5. Fix It

6. Ask Your Momma

7. Dear Lover

8. Stop the World

9. Cassanova Brown

10. Playboy (US 12" Remix)

11. Fix It (US 12" Remix)

12. Fix It (Instrumental)(US 12" Remix)

13. Midnight Magnet" (US 12" Instrumental)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

James Brown - Gravity

Today Marks The 39th Anniversary of James Brown’s 53rd Studio Album “Gravity” Originally Released on September 15, 1986.

“Gravity” is the 53rd studio album by American musician James Brown released in 1986 on Scotti Brothers Records.

Three songs were released from the album "Living in America", "Gravity" and "How Do You Stop".

"Living in America" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles charts.

"Gravity" reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #93 on the U.S. Hot 100 chart.

"How Do You Stop" peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album track "Turn Me Loose, I'm Dr. Feelgood" was used as the theme song for the Australian TV sketch comedy series The Late Show (1992–93) and is often played by Major League Baseball's Philadelphia Phillies when one of their batters hits a home run at Citizens Bank Park.

“Living in America" was featured and performed by James Brown in the Rocky IV movie. In the film, Brown sings the song during Apollo Creed’s ring entrance, in reference to the character's patriotic image.

The song was also featured in the 2003 NASCAR Pontiac commercial with drivers Mike Skinner, Jack Sprague, Jerry Nadeau, Johnny Benson, Jr. and Ricky Craven.

In 1987, it was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song and won Brown a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

Track-listing

All tracks are written by Dan Hartman and Charlie Midnight, except "Let's Get Personal," by Hartman, Midnight and Alison Moyet.

1. Gravity

2. Let's Get Personal

3. How Do You Stop

4. Turn Me Loose, I'm Dr. Feelgood

5. Living in America

6. Goliath

7. Repeat the Beat (Faith)

8. Return to Me

9. Living in America (12" R&B Dance Version)

10. Gravity (12" Extended Dance Mix)

11. How Do You Stop (12" Special Extended Mix)

12. Goliath (12" Message House Mix)

13. Living in America (Rocky IV Soundtrack Album Version)

14. Gravity (Single Version)

15. Living in America (Instrumental)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Instant Funk - Kinky

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Instant Funk’s 7th Studio Album “Kinky” Originally Released on September 15, 1983.

“Kinky” is the seventh and final studio album by Philadelphia-based disco, funk band Instant Funk released in 1983 on Salsoul Records.

The song “(Just Because) You'll Be Mine” was released as the album’s single it reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco chart, and at #71 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles charts.

“Kinky” would be the final album recorded and released on the Salsoul record label.

The band disbanded in 1985 after the Salsoul Records folded.

Drummer Scotty Miller passed away on April 11, 2017.

Track-listing

1. (Just Because) You'll Be Mine

2. Tonight We're Gonna Make Love

3. Kinky

4. Don't Call Me Brother

5. Let's Make Love

6. Passion

7. Keep It Up

8. Funkiest Party In The World

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Jesse Johnson - Shockadelica

Today Marks The 39th Anniversary of Jesse Johnson’s Sophomore Studio Album “Shockadelica” Originally Released on September 15, 1986.

“Shockadelica” is the second studio album by guitarist and songwriter Jesse Johnson. It was released in 1986 on A&M Records.

The album reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart and at #70 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album “Crazay”, “She (I Can't Resist)” and “Baby Let's Kiss”.

“Crazay” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco Club Play chart and at #53 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“She (I Can't Resist)” reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco Club Play chart and at #28 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Baby Let's Kiss” reached #23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The song "Crazay" features legendary musician, songwriter Sly Stone who also appears in the video for the song.

The album went platinum in the United States by the RIAA selling over 1,000,000 copies.

Track-listing

1. Change Your Mind

2. Crazay (Featuring Sly Stone)

3. Baby Let's Kiss

4. A Better Way

5. Do Yourself A Favor

6. She (I Can't Resist)

7. Addiction

8. Tonite

9. Burn You Up

10. Black In America

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Michael Cooper - Get Closer

Today Marks The 33rd Anniversary of Michael Cooper’s 3rd Studio Album “Get Closer” Originally Released on September 15, 1992.

“Get Closer” is the third solo studio album by Con Funk Shun’s frontman Michael Cooper released in 1992 on Reprise Records.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, Let's Get Closer, Shoop Shoop (Never Stop Givin' You Love), and So Good.

 “Let's Get Closer” reached #33 on the U.S. Billboard's Hot R&B Singles chart.

“Shoop Shoop (Never Stop Givin' You Love)” reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard's Hot R&B Singles chart, and at #67 on the U.S. Billboard's Hot 100 Singles chart.

“So Good” reached #43 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Other notable songs are “Skin Tight” a remake of The Ohio Players classic song, and “Fun, Fun, Fun” a remake of his original classic song with Con Funk Shun.

Track-listing

1. I Just Love You

2. I Want You So Bad

3. Do You

4. Shoop Shoop (Never Stop Givin' You Love)

5. Come To Me

6. So Good

7. Let's Get Closer

8. Skin Tight

9. Love's Passion

10. Gotta Get You Undressed

11. Owww!

12. Fun, Fun, Fun

13. To The Pieces

14. Love Games

15. Do You (Buddy's Beat Mix)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Rose Royce - Car Wash

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Rose Royce’s Debut Studio Album and Motion Picture Soundtrack “Car Wash” Originally Released on September 13, 1976.

“Car Wash” is a soundtrack double album released in 1976 by the funk band Rose Royce on MCA Records.

The soundtrack peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The soundtrack produced four hit singles, The title track “Car Wash”, 1977        "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is", "I Wanna Get Next to You" and "I'm Going Down".

“Car Wash” peaked at #1 on both of Billboard’s Hot Soul Singles and the Billboard Hot 100 charts and peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is" was the second single released from the album it failed to chart in the United States but reached #44 on the UK singles chart.

"I Wanna Get Next to You" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles and at #10 on the U.S Billboard Hot 100.

"I'm Going Down" peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles and at #70 on the U. Billboard Hot 100.

The soundtrack was produced by Norman Whitfield. It is the soundtrack/film score to the 1976 hit comedy Car Wash that featured comedians Richard Pryor, George Carlin and the Pointer Sisters. The soundtrack also the debut album for Rose Royce.

Track-listing

1. Car Wash

2. 6 O'Clock DJ (Let's Rock)

3. I Wanna Get Next to You

4. Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

5. Zig Zag

6. You're on My Mind

7. Mid Day DJ Theme

8. Born to Love You

9. Daddy Rich

10. Richard Pryor Dialogue

11. You Gotta Believe" (Vocals by the Pointer Sisters)

12. I'm Going Down

13. Yo Yo

14. Sunrise

15. Righteous Rhythm

16. Water

17. Crying

18. Doin' What Comes Naturally

19. Keep on Keepin' On

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Klymaxx - Girls Will Be Girls

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Klymaxx’s Sophomore Studio Album “Girls Will Be Girls” Originally Released on September 14, 1982.

“Girls Will Be Girls” is the second studio album by R&B funk band Klymaxx. Released in 1982 on Solar Records.

Upon its release the album failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Heartbreaker (I'm Such a Mess)" and "Wild Girls".

"Heartbreaker (I'm Such a Mess)" was the first single released from the album it failed to chart.

The second single "Wild Girls" reached #78 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

 The album was produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and Lakeside’s members Otis Stokes and Stephen Shockley with Dynasty member William Shelby.

Klymaxx would be one of the first acts Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis would begin their writing and production career outside of The Time.

Track-listing

1. Girls Will Be Girls

2. Wild Girls

3. Convince Me

4. The Man in My Life

5. Heartbreaker (I'm Such a Mess)

6. All Turned Out

7. Offer I Can't Refuse

8. If You Love Me

9. Don't Hide Your Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Starpoint - Wanting You

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Starpoint’s 3rd Studio Album “Wanting You” Originally Released on September 14, 1981.

“Wanting You ” is the third studio album by Crownsville, Maryland R&B, funk band Starpoint released in 1981 on Chocolate City Records.

Upon its release the album failed to chart on any of the U.S. Billboard Albums charts.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, the title track "Wanting You", "Do What You Wanna Do", and "Angel"

"Wanting You" reached #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Do What You Wanna Do" reached #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Angel" reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album features the powerful vocals of Renee Diggs, with standout tracks like the infectious "Do What You Wanna Do" and the dreamy "Angel". While some find the Stylistics cover, "Break Up To Make Up," less appealing, the album offers a good balance of upbeat and mellow grooves. Overall, it's considered a solid release showcasing Starpoint's musicality and talent.

The album standouts are "Do What You Wanna Do" and "Angel" are frequently mentioned as highlights, with "Try Me" also praised for its relaxed, summery vibe.

The album successfully combines funk and R&B, with a mix of danceable tracks and slower, romantic songs.

The album was Producer, Arranged By, Mixed By Lionel Job.

Track-listing

1. Wanting You

2. Do What You Wanna Do

3. Angel

4. Last Night

5. Try Me

6. Shake It Out

7. Break Up To Make Up

8. Starnite Your Night

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Stevie Wonder - In Square Circle

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of Stevie Wonder’s 20th Studio Album “In Square Circle” Originally Released on September 13, 1985.

“In Square Circle” is the twentieth studio album by American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder, released in 1985 on Tamla Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

The album features four hit singles "Part-Time Lover", "Go Home", "Overjoyed", and "Land of La La".

”Part-Time Lover" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard’s Hot 100, Adult Contemporary, R&B Singles, and the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play .

"Go Home" peaked at #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard’s Adult Contemporary, and the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play charts. The song also peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard

R&B Singles chart, and at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Overjoyed" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, #8 onthe U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart, and at #24 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Land of La La" reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart, and at #86 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album was certified 2× Platinum in the United States by the RIAA.

The album won a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

Track-listing

All tracks are written by Stevie Wonder

 1. Part-Time Lover

2. I Love You Too Much

3. Whereabouts

4. Stranger on the Shore of Love

5. Never in Your Sun

6. Spiritual Walkers

7. Land of La La

8. Go Home

9. Overjoyed

10. It's Wrong (Apartheid)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

MBC - MBC

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of MCB’s Debut Self-Titled Album “MCB” Originally Released on September 13, 1983.

“MCB” is the debut self titled studio album by MCB released in 1983 on Epic Records.

The members of MCB were former members of New York City funk band Cameo, The band was founded by funk bassist Aaron Mills, trombonist Jeryl R. Bright and keyboardist Thomas T.C. Campbell formed their band in 1983, the group signed to Epic and released one album on Epic Records.

The song "Can't Fight The Feelin'" was released as the album’s lead single the single didn’t chart in the United States it single did quite well on the UK charts.

The album was produced and arranged by Tom Tom 84 and MCB.

Track-listing

1. Can't Fight The Feelin'                

2. I'm The One You're The One                

3. Close To You                                

4. This Is Right                                

5. Do It Up                                

6. Just A Thrill                                

7. Bring It Back                                

8. Feels So Right        

9. Can't Fight This Feelin' (reprise)

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

Morris Day - The Color of Success

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of Morris Day’s Debut Studio Album “Color of Success” Originally Released on September 11, 1985.

“Color of Success” is the 1985 debut album by the funk/R&B singer, drummer and actor Morris Day.released in 1985 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Albums chart and at #37 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Four songs were released from the album "The Oak Tree”, "The Color Of Success", "The Character" and "Love Sign"

"The Oak Tree” peaked at #3 on the Hot Black Singles chart, #14 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Song’s chart and at #65 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“The Color of Success” reached #15 on the Hot Black Singles chart.

“The Character” reached #34 on the Hot Black Singles chart.

"Love Sign" was the fourth single from the album it failed to chart on the Billboard charts.

The album was produced, arranged and composed by Day, who also played drums and keyboards throughout the album. Also on keyboards was Rickey "Freeze" Smith, who would later join Day in the revamped version of The Time in the mid-1990s.

Track-listing

All tracks composed by Morris Day

1. Color of Success

2. The Character

3. The Oak Tree

4. Love Sign

5. Don't Wait For Me

6. Love / Addiction

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Graham Central Station - Release Yourself

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of Graham Central Station’s Sophomore Studio Album “Release Yourself” Originally Released on September 11, 1974.

“Release Yourself” is the second studio album by Graham Central Station, released in 1974 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #51 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Release Yourself” and “Feel the Need”.

“Release Yourself” the album’s title track reached #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Feel the Need” reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Track-listing

All songs written by Larry Graham except where indicated.

1. G.C.S.

2. Release Yourself

3. Got To Go Through It To Get To It

4. I Believe In You

5. 'Tis Your Kind of Music

6. Hey Mr. Writer

7. Feel the Need" (Abrim Tilmon)

8. Today

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Aurra - Satisfaction

Today Marks The 12th Anniversary of Aurra’s 5th Studio Album “Satisfaction” Originally Released on September 9, 2013.

“Satisfaction” is an unreleased studio album by Aurra that was originally set to be released in 1984.

In 2013, Family Groove Records recovered the lost tapes for the unreleased '5th' Aurra album Satisfaction, originally recorded in 1984.

The album’s direction was supervised by Steve Washington, Sheila Brody, and Daniel Borine.

”Satisfaction" is a well-regarded album that offers a strong dose of funk and boogie music.

'Satisfaction' is a unique blend of funk, boogie, electro & R&B capturing Steve Washington's sharp production skills along with Sheila Horne Brody’s timeless songwriting.

The album is the first album that doesn’t feature vocals by Aurra’s original lead singers Curt Jones and Starleana Young who’ve left the band due to legal disputes over the band’s name with the band’s founding member Steve Washington.

The album “Satisfaction” features vocals by Sheila Brody and Mark Stevens.

The album is considered a significant piece of music history, documenting the early use of drum machines and the transition from post-disco to boogie and electro.

While some may find the Linn drum programming a bit dated, the overall consensus is positive, with many appreciating the album's funky, danceable rhythms and catchy hooks.

Upon it’s release the album “Satisfaction” didn’t reach the Billboard charts and the album’s self-titled track "Satisfaction" failed to chart on Billboard as well.

Track-listing

All songs were written and arranged by Steve C. Washington and Sheila Brody.

Tracks 1,3,4,6 and 7 were co-written by Mark Stevens.

1. Turn The Lights Down Low

2. Satisfaction

3. Never Met No One Like You

4. My Lovin' Is For You

5. Perfect Date

6. Something Tells Me

7. Maybe I'm Wasting My Time

8. Hide And Seek

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Chocolate Milk - Action Speaks Louder Than Words

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of Chocolate Milk’s Debut Studio Album “Action Speaks Louder Than Words“ Originally Released on September 9, 1976.

“Action Speaks Louder Than Words” is the debut studio album by New Orleans, Louisiana Soul, Funk band Chocolate Milk released in 1975 on RCA Records.

The album reached #38 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's charts, and at #191 on the Billboard 200.

The title track ""Action Speaks Louder Than Words" was the band’s debut single it peaked at #15 on the Billboard R&B chart and #69 on the Hot 100 in 1975.

Recording of Action Speaks Louder Than Words took place at the Sea-Saint Recording Studio in New Orleans. With Allen Toussaint and Marshall Sehorn producing the album, a total of ten tracks were written by Chocolate Milk were recorded. To do this, they used a mixture of traditional and the nascent technology that was available, the group recorded a combination of soul and funk tracks.

Track-listing

1. Action Speaks Louder Than Words

2. Time Machine

3. My Mind Is Hazy

4. Confusion

5. Pretty Pimpin' Willie

6. Tin Man

7. Chocolate Pleasure

8. People

9. Ain't Nothin' But A Thing

10. Out Among The Stars

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Zapp - Vibe

Today Marks The 36th Anniversary of Zapp's 5th Studio Album “Zapp Vibe” Originally Released on September 9, 1989.

“Zapp V (aka Zapp Vibe) is the fifth studio album by Dayton, Ohio funk band Zapp released in 1989 on Reprise Records.

The album reached #34 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #154 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

The song “Ooh Baby Baby” was the only single released from the album it reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Zapp Vibe became the last full-length album to include frontman Roger Troutman and brother Larry Troutman before their untimely deaths in 1999.

The next full-length album to be released by the band would be in 2002 entitled "Zapp VI: Back by Popular Demand".

Track-list

1. Ooh Baby Baby

2. I Play the Talk Box

3. Stop That

4. Fire

5. Been This Way Before

6. Back to Bass-iks

7. Jesse Jackson

8. Ain't the Thing to Do

9. Sad-Day Moaning

10. Rock Star

11. Jake E Stanstill

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Isley Brothers - Live It Up

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of The Isley Brothers’ 12th Studio Album “Live It Up” Originally Released on September 7, 1974.

“Live It Up” is the seventh studio album by Cincinnati, Ohio, R&B funk band The Isley Brothers released in 1974 May on their label T-Neck Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

“Two singles were released from the album,the album’s title track "Live It Up" and "Midnight Sky".

"Live It Up" peaked at number four on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at number fifty four on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Midnight Sky" peaked at number eight on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at number seventy three on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album's ballads including their slower rendition of Todd Rundgren's hit, "Hello It's Me", which was their only cover on the album, became popular alongside the folk rock influenced ballad, "Brown Eyed Girl" (not to be confused with Van Morrison's song of the same title).

The album was their second major-distributed album with Epic Records under their T-Neck subsidiary.

The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), selling a million copies.

Track-listing

1. Live It Up (Part 1 & 2)

2. Brown Eyed Girl

3. Need a Little Taste of Love

4. Lover's Eve

5. Midnight Sky (Part 1 & 2)

6. Hello It's Me

7. Ain't I Been Good to You (Part 1 & 2)

8. Live It Up" (Live on the Dinah Shore Show, 1974)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Slave - Bad Enuff

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Slave’s 8th Studio Album “Bad Enuff” Originally Released on September 7. 1983.

“Bad Enuff” is the eighth studio album by Dayton, Ohio funk band Slave released in 1983 on Cotillion Records.

The album reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #168 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs was released from as singles "Shake It Up" and “Steppin' Out"

"Shake It Up" reached #22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Steppin' Out" reached #73 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album was produced, arranged and mixed by Slave’s longtime producer Jimmy Douglass.

Track-listing

1. Steppin' Out

2. Bad Girl

3.Turn You Out (In & Out)

4. Shake It Up

5. Dance

6. Show Down

7. Rendezvous

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Kool & the Gang - As One

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Kool & The Gang’s 14th Studio Album “As One” Originally Released on September 7, 1982.

“As One” is the fourteenth studio album by the funk band Kool & the Gang, released in 1982 on De-Lite Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #29 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album "Big Fun", "Let's Go Dancin' (Ooh La, La, La)", "Hi De Hi, Hi De Ho" and "Street Kids".

"Big Fun" peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Let's Go Dancin' (Ooh La, La, La)" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Hi De Hi, Hi De Ho" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart .

"Street Kids" reached #78 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart .

The album was certified gold in the United States by RIAA selling 500,000^ copies.

Track-listing

1. Street Kids

2. Big Fun

3. As One

4. Hi De Hi, Hi De Ho

5. Let's Go Dancin' (Ooh La La La)

6. Pretty Baby

7. Think It Over

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Kool & the Gang - Lady’s Night

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Kool & The Gang’s 11th Studio Album “Ladies Night” Originally Released on September 6, 1979.

“Ladies' Night” is the eleventh studio album by the American band Kool & the Gang, released in 1979 on De-Lite Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album “Ladies' Night”, "Too Hot" and “Hangin' Out”.

“Ladies' Night” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Too Hot" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Hangin' Out” reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was certified platinum in the United States by the RIAA selling 1,000,000^ copies.

The album marked the debut of lead vocalist James "J.T." Taylor with whom Kool & the Gang made their funk style more mainstream by incorporating some pop and light R&B into the band’s sound. The end results was that this album was not only popular during the 1970s black-oriented funk era where the band started, but also during the more popular and diverse disco era.

Track-listing

1. Ladies' Night

2. Got You into My Life

3. If You Feel Like Dancin'

4. Hangin' Out

5. Tonight's the Night

6. Too Hot

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Roy Ayers - Lifeline

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Roy Ayers’ 19th Studio Album “Lifeline” Originally Released on September 6, 1977.

“Lifeline” is the nineteenth studio album by American vibraphonist and Jazz-funk composer Roy Ayers released in 1977 on Polydor Records.

The album peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #72 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The album’s lead single "Running Away" peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

Track-listing

1. This Side of Sunshine

2. Running Away

3. Gotta Find a Lover

4. I Still Love You

5. Lifeline

6. Cincinnati Growl

7. Fruit

8. Sanctified Feeling

9. Stranded in the Jungle

10. Together

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Dawn Silva - All My Funky Friends

Today Marks The 25th Anniversary of Dawn Silva’s Debut Solo Studio Album “All My Funky Friends” Originally Released on September 5, 2000.

“All My Funky Friends” is the debut solo album by former Brides Of Funkenstein’s lead vocalist Dawn Silva released in 2000 on Groovin' Records.

This album is a hidden gem that deserves a listen to and is filled with funky cuts. The album has many notable standouts including her remake edition of Bootsy Collins’ classic slow jam “I'd Rather Be With You”.

The rest of the album doesn’t disappoint with its Infectious grooves like "Red Light District," "Break Me Off" and "Whole Lotta Game." Notable slow jams like Close to you and Calling out your Name are also great tunes as well.

Track-listing

1. As Long As It's On The One (Intro)

2. Break Me Off

3. Red Light District

4. Close To You

5. Shake It Down

6. I'd Rather Be With You

7. Whole Lotta Game

8. All My Funky Friends

9. Disco To Go

10. Calling Out Your Name

11. Do You Remember Them

12. On The One (Outro)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Fatback Band - Keep on Steppin'

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of The Fatback Band’s 4th Studio Album “Keep on Steppin'” Originally Released on September 3, 1974.

“Keep on Steppin'” is the fourth studio album by New York City funk band The Fatback Band released in 1974 on Event Records Inc.

The album’s title track “Keep On Steppin'” reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart .

The song “Wicki-Wacky” was the album’s second single it reached #94 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart .

Track-listing

1. Mr. Bass Man

2. Stuff

3. New York Style

4. Love

5. Can't Fight The Flame

6. Wicki Wacky

7. Feeling

8. Keep On Steppin'

9. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Brides of Funkenstein - Funk or Walk

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of The Brides of Funkenstein’s Debut Studio Album “Funk or Walk” Originally Released on September 3, 1978.

“Funk or Walk” is the debut album by the Brides of Funkenstein, released in 1978 on Atlantic Records.

The album reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #70 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The song “Disco to Go” was released as a single from the album it peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was produced by George Clinton with the exception of the album's first single "Disco To Go" which was written and produced by Clinton and Bootsy Collins.

The song was originally performed live by Bootsy's Rubber Band.

To this day, the P-Funk All Stars continue to play "Disco To Go" in their live concerts. The Brides of Funkenstein also toured and recorded with Parliament/Funkadelic around this same time.

Track-listing

1. Disco to Go

2. War Ship Touchante

3. Nappy

4. Birdie

5. Just Like You

6. When You're Gone

7. Amorous

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Val Young - Seduction

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of Val Young’s Debut Studio Album “Seduction” Originally Released on September 1, 1985.

“Seduction” is the debut studio album by Val Young released in 1985 on Gordy Records.

The album reached #39 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs charts.

The album’s title track "Seduction," peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco Club Play chart, and at #17 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“If You Should Ever Be Lonely” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Disco Club Play chart, at #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The song "Piece of My Heart" was another popular track on the album.

The album was produced by Rick James, Levi Ruffin, and Fred Jenkins.

Tracklist

1. Mind Games

2. If You Should Ever Be Lonely

3. Let's Fall In Love

4. Tellin' Me Lies

5. Come Hang Out

6. Seduction

7. Piece Of My Heart

8. Waiting For You

9. Make Up Your Mind

By Romie Rome for Musique Fnkology

 

 

Tower of Power - In the Slot

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of Tower of Power’s 6th Studio Album “In the Slot” Originally Released on September 1, 1975.

“In the Slot” is the fifth studio album by Oakland, California Soul funk band Tower of Power released in 1975 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album reached #29 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's. chart, and at #67 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album, "You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous" and "Treat Me Like Your Man".

"You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous" reached #57 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Treat Me Like Your Man" was the second song released from the album it failed to chart.

The album marked the debut of new vocalist Hubert Tubbs. David Garibaldi returns to the drummer's throne after being absent from the previous album Urban Renewal (save for one track), although the drummer from that album, David Bartlett, does appear as a background vocalist on this album, as does Garibaldi's next successor, Ron Beck.

The album “In the Slot” was their last studio album for Warner Bros. Records.

Tracklist

1. Just Enough and Too Much

2. Treat Me Like Your Man

3. If I Play My Cards Right

4. As Surely as I Stand Here

5. Fanfare: Matanuska

6. On the Serious Side

7. Ebony Jam

8. You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous

9. Vuela Por Noche

10. Essence of Innocence

11. The Soul of a Child

12. Drop It in the Slot

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Jimmy Castor Bunch - Dimension III

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of The Jimmy Castor Bunch’s 4th Studio Album “Dimension III” Originally Resleased on September 1, 1973.

“Dimension III” is the fourth studio album by the Jimmy Castor Bunch, released in 1973 on RCA Records.

The album reached #49 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's charts.

The song “Soul Serenade” was released as the album’s single, it reached #72 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was criticized for its choices of songs, particularly the bullfighter story-song "The Last Ole" and dull covers.

The album was seen as a misstep, leaning towards a commercially weak sound that didn't fit their previous funky and diverse style.

The album received harsh criticism from fans calling it a far cry from the band’s previous albums like “Hey Leroy”, and “It’s Just Begun”.

Tracklist

1. Revelation (Prologue)

2. The Last Olé

3. How Beautiful You Are

4. I'm Not A Child Anymore

5. Helpless

6. Bridge Over Troubled Water

7. Soul Serenade

8. Whiter Shade Of Pale

9. The Lone Ranger

10. Revelation (Epilogue)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Starpoint - Hot To Touch

Today Marks The 37th Anniversary of Starpoint’s 9th Studio Album “Hot To Touch” Originally Released on September 1, 1988.

“Hot To Touch” is the ninth studio album by Crownsville, Maryland R&B, funk band Starpoint released in 1988 on Elektra Records.

The album reached #75 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album, "Say You Will" and "Tough Act to Follow".

"Say You Will" reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Tough Act to Follow" reached #81 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album is known for its soulful vocals, catchy melodies, and high-energy performances.

The song "Hot to the Touch" is particularly well-regarded for its upbeat tempo and infectious groove.

The album was produced by Bernard Edwards (tracks: 1, 3, 8 to 10), and Lionel Job (tracks: 2, 4, 7, 11, 12).

Track-listing

1. Fresh Start

2. One Step Closer To Your Love

3. Tough Act To Follow

4. Say You Will

5. Hot To The Touch

6. Swept Away

7. After All Is Said And Done

8. Park It

9. Heart Attack

10. Fresh Start (Extended Version)

11. One Step Closer To Your Love (Extended Version)

12. Say You Will (Extended Version)

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

Sly & the Family Stone - Life

Today Marks The 58th Anniversary of Sly & the Family Stone’s 3rd Studio Album “Life” Originally Released on September 1, 1968.

“Life” is the third studio album by American Psychedelic funk-soul band Sly & the Family Stone, released in 1968 on Epic and CBS Records.

The album reached #195 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs charts. The album reached #168 in Japan on their Oricon Albums Charts.

The album’s title track “Life” reached #93 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Life" captures the band's unique blend of genres, creating grooves that was both innovative and infectious.

Though not as successful as it’s predecessor “Dance To The Music” or commercially accepted as their later work the album was a crucial step in their development, praised for its energy, songwriting, and musicianship.

The band members shine individually and as a unit, with notable performances from Larry Graham on bass and Freddie Stone on guitar.

The album "Life" is heavily sampled in hip-hop and electronica, demonstrating its enduring influence on contemporary music.

Artists such as Cypress Hill, Beck, The Jaz and others have taken samples of the album and used it in their work.

Cypress Hill sampled Life by Sly & the Family Stone for their 1993 song

“Insane in the Brain” from their studio album “Black Sunday”.

The Rapper Jaz sampled Life by Sly & the Family Stone for his 1989 song “Boost Up the Family” from his studio album “Word to the Jaz”

Beck sampled Life by Sly & the Family Stone for his 1996 song “Sissyneck” from his studio album “Odelay”.

Track-listing

All tracks written by Sylvester Stewart, and produced and arranged by Sly Stone for Stone Flower Productions.

1. Dynamite

2. Chicken

3. Plastic Jim

4. Fun

5. Into My Own Thing

6. Harmony

7. Life

8. Love City

9. I'm an Animal

10. M'Lady

11. Jane Is a Groupee

12. Dynamite (mono single version)

13. Seven More Days (previously unreleased)

14. Pressure (previously unreleased)

15. Sorrow (previously unreleased)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Parliament - Osmium

Today Marks The 55th Anniversary of Parliament's Debut Album "Osmium" Originally Released in the Month of September 1, 1970.

“Osmium”, the debut studio album by the American funk band Parliament , was released in 1970 on Invictus Records.

While not a chart-topper upon release, "Osmium" is now recognized for its historical significance and influence on the band's trajectory. 

The album "Osmium" marked a shift in sound, with the band incorporating elements of funk, soul, and psychedelic rock. 

The personnel for this album included the five Parliaments singers and the five backing musicians known as Funkadelic.

Parliament evolved from an earlier doo-wop group called The Parliaments. 

The same personnel also recorded as Funkadelic, releasing that act's self-titled debut album also in 1970.

After the release of Osmium, contractual difficulties prevented further recording under the name Parliament until 1974, when Clinton signed that act to Casablanca Records and positioned it as an R&B-inspired counterpoint to the more rock-oriented Funkadelic.

Both Parliament and Funkadelic, under the guidance of George Clinton, became key components of the larger P-Funk collective known for their theatrical live shows and unique musical approach.

"Osmium" is the only Parliament album to be produced by Ruth Copeland, and the only album to feature rhythm guitarist Tawl Ross, before his 1971 departure from the band.

Track-listing

1. I Call My Baby Pussycat

2. Put Love In Your Life

3. Little Ole Country Boy

4. Moonshine Heather

5. Oh Lord, Why Lord / Prayer

6. My Automobile

7. Nothing Before Me But Thang

7. Funky Woman

8. Livin' The Life

9. The Silent Boatman

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Ozone - Walk On

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Ozone’s Debut Studio Album “Walk On” Originally Released on September 1, 1980.

“Walk On” is the debut studio album by Nashville, Tennessee Funk, R&B band Ozone released in 1980 on Motown Records.

The album failed to chart in the United States, but the title track “Walk On” reached #94 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album is actually mostly instrumental, with a lot of showy (but impressive) horn work. The grooves are pretty good, covering the spectrum between not-quite-blaxploitation-funk and not-quite-smooth-jazz.

Track-listing

01. Walk On

02. This is funkin' insane

03. Moments to come

04. That J

05. You on my mind

06. Joset

07. Cosmic Egg

08 Ego.

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.