The Independent Lens PBS documentary WE WANT THE FUNK! which premiered on April 8th, 2025, offers a deep dive into the history and lasting influence of funk music, a genre born from the heart of African American communities in the mid-1960s.
Funk emerged from a vibrant blend of soul, jazz, R&B, and African rhythms, becoming a powerful form of artistic expression and resistance against the backdrop of racial and political repression. Key figures like James Brown, often called the "Godfather of Funk," were instrumental in shaping the genre with his dynamic energy and groundbreaking tracks such as "Papa's Got a Brand-New Bag" and "I Got You (I Feel Good)." His emphasis on the downbeat and syncopated rhythms laid the foundation for funk's signature sound.
The documentary highlights how funk's roots are deeply intertwined with the African American experience, echoing the call-and-response style of gospel music blended with jazz-inspired grooves. This musical innovation provided a sonic landscape that resonated with the hopes and struggles of a generation navigating the complexities of the Civil Rights Movement.
WE WANT THE FUNK! also explores the genre's significant interplay with other musical styles and its widespread influence. Television dance shows like Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, which aired from 1956 to 1989, played a vital role in popularizing funk-infused dance moves, bringing the genre into mainstream pop culture. The electrifying performances of multiracial bands like Sly and the Family Stone transcended racial barriers, uniting fans on dance floors across the country. The flamboyant George Clinton and his Parliament-Funkadelic ensemble further pushed the boundaries of funk with their psychedelic sounds and theatrical stage presence, turning concerts into ecstatic expressions of joyful resistance.
The 1970s are often considered the golden era of funk, with iconic tracks like Rick James’s “Super Freak” and Wild Cherry's “Play That Funky Music” becoming anthems of the time. Bands such as The Meters and Kool & the Gang experimented with sound, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. Funk's influence extended beyond music into fashion, with bold colors, platform shoes, and flamboyant attire mirroring the music's vibrant energy.
While funk's mainstream popularity has fluctuated, its essence has remained a significant influence across various musical genres. Hip-hop artists frequently sample funk's rhythmic elements, paying homage to its rich musical history. The documentary features insightful interviews with contemporary artists like Questlove from The Roots, gospel artist Kirk Franklin, and David Byrne of the Talking Heads, all attesting to funk's lasting impact on their creative work.
George Clinton aptly describes funk in the film as a living art form that continues to evolve, with its infectious rhythms echoing in modern genres like Afrobeat, dance music, and pop. WE WANT THE FUNK! crafted by Emmy Award-winning filmmakers Stanley Nelson and Nicole London, serves as a crucial tribute to a genre deeply rooted in its historical context yet vibrantly alive in today's cultural landscape, celebrating the power of music as a force for joy, resilience, and self-expression in the face of adversity.
