Introduction
“Play That Funky Music” is a timeless classic that has been popular for decades. Written and performed by the Pittsburgh-based funk rock band Wild Cherry, the song was an instant hit when it first came out in 1976. It has since become a staple of the pop music genre, and its influence can still be seen in modern music today.
In this article, we will explore the release of “Play That Funky Music” and its lasting legacy. We will look at the history of the song, the impact it had on music culture, and the behind-the-scenes story of its making. We will also hear from Wild Cherry lead singer Rob Parissi about his personal thoughts on the song and its success.
A Historical Look at the Release of “Play That Funky Music”
Wild Cherry was formed by lead singer Rob Parissi in 1970 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The band quickly gained notoriety in the local music scene with their unique blend of funk and rock. They released a few singles in the mid-1970s before finally hitting it big with “Play That Funky Music” in 1976.
The song was originally released as a single on Epic Records in May of 1976. It quickly caught on with radio stations, and by August of that year it had reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It stayed there for two weeks and eventually sold over two million copies. The song was later included on the band’s debut album, Electrified Funk, which was released in October 1976.
The success of “Play That Funky Music” was unprecedented for a funk rock song. It was the first song to combine elements of both genres into a mainstream pop hit, and it opened the door for other funk-influenced songs to enter the pop music scene. The song has since become a classic, and it is still played regularly on the radio and in clubs today.
The Timeless Appeal of “Play That Funky Music”
One of the reasons why “Play That Funky Music” has endured over the years is because of its catchy, upbeat sound. The song features a driving bassline and an infectious chorus that is impossible to get out of your head. It has a timeless appeal that appeals to all ages, and it has become a staple of any party or dance floor.
Another reason why the song remains popular today is because of its message. The lyrics are about freedom of expression and being true to yourself, which resonates with people of all ages. The song encourages listeners to let go and just have fun, and its uplifting message is something that never goes out of style.
An Interview with Wild Cherry Lead Singer Rob Parissi
We recently spoke with Rob Parissi, the lead singer of Wild Cherry and the man behind “Play That Funky Music.” Here’s what he had to say about the song and its lasting legacy:
“I never expected ‘Play That Funky Music’ to become such a huge hit. I wrote it as a way to express my love of funk music and to encourage people to just have fun and be themselves. I’m so happy that it resonated with people, and that it’s still being played today. It’s a real honor.”
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Making of “Play That Funky Music”
Rob Parissi wrote “Play That Funky Music” in 1975 while on tour with Wild Cherry. He was inspired by James Brown and wanted to write a song that combined the energy of funk music with the accessibility of pop music. He wrote the song in a hotel room in Detroit and recorded a demo version with producer Bill Szymczyk.
The song was then recorded and released as a single in May of 1976. It was an immediate hit, and the band went on to record the song for their debut album, Electrified Funk. The album was released in October of that year and featured the hit single “Play That Funky Music.”
How “Play That Funky Music” Changed the Landscape of Pop Music
The success of “Play That Funky Music” opened the door for other funk-influenced songs to enter the pop music scene. The song showed that it was possible to combine elements of funk and rock into a mainstream hit, and it paved the way for other artists to follow suit. This includes the likes of Earth, Wind & Fire, George Clinton, and many more.
The song also had an impact on modern music. Artists like Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson have been inspired by the song’s fusion of funk and pop, and they have incorporated elements of it into their own music. Even today, “Play That Funky Music” is still influencing musicians, and its legacy will live on for many years to come.
Conclusion
“Play That Funky Music” is a timeless classic that has been popular for decades. Written and performed by Wild Cherry in 1976, the song was an instant hit and quickly became a staple of the pop music genre. It opened the door for other funk-influenced songs to enter the pop music scene and has had an enduring influence on modern music.
Rob Parissi’s song has stood the test of time, and it will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. Its uplifting message and catchy sound make it a timeless classic, and its legacy will live on forever.
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