top of page
Funk
Originating in the 1960s, funk is a style of dance music, often referring to an aggressive form of urban dance music. It is characterized by strong, syncopated bass lines and drumbeats, accented by several instruments that counterplay rhythmically, culminating in a "groovy" sound. Early funk music and modern street funk were established by James Brown’s band in the 1960s, with an emphasis on the first note of the musical measure. Brown and others used the funk style as a backing to their lyrics, which commented on the harsh realities of their lives.
MUSIC THEORY
Funk is usually written in 4/4-time, with a slow but strong groove. Tempos usually sit at 90-110 bpm, driven by baselines and drums. Syncopated patterns on the bass is backed by a displaced backbeat on the snare. Often, funk chords are extended with added notes.
Musicians would use techniques such as chanking or muted strumming, chocking the neck of the guitar then strumming the strings in a percussive way to create a distinctive sound. Chromatic approach is a technique where the musician moves the chord down a half-step then back up to create a funky sound.
Funk's vocals are characterized by short phrases, a focus on rhythm than melody, and repetition.
bottom of page