Actually, the saying as I first heard it on a Funkadelic cut goes, “Free Your Mind and Your Ass Will Follow”. En Vogue made it more radio “friendly” by singing “Free Your Mind and The Rest Will Follow”. But the line of thought is not lost.
Speaking of En Vogue it is easy to understand how an ensemble group with their qualities can “rocket” to the top.
Sonically, it is has been rare when to find a group that sounds so good together. Listen carefully and you can pick out each of the Funky Divas voices as they harmonize the choruses.
Also, credit to the musicians who’ve backed these women up over time is certainly due.
Without musicians who can keep it in “the pocket”, the snare sharp, the bass tight there would be no “Sonic Chocolate”.
Caron Wheeler a founding member of Soul II Soul had explained the backstory to “Back To Life” a while back. To spark your curiosity, take a listen then look her up on YouTube.
It will possibly change your whole perspective of that song.
Jimetta Rose caught my ear on Oisima’s “Blue Shade” and blending into Joyce Sims‘ (one of the original Divas of House y’all) “Love Song” just felt right (y’know?).
I saw someone the other day and was reminded of a song Crystal Waters (Happy Birthday in advance!) had done. The irony of her best known hit – which came out some time ago – remaining as relevant today as it was when it first hit my ears is not lost on me Nor should it be to you.
I added Vesta while digging for tracks. First time I heard her was on “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”. I ended up learning the bass synth parts to “Don’t You Blow A Good Thing” on the bass that day. Her rich embracing voice feels so good! I used the dub version of the so called “sleeper” club hit… – hmph, I wasn’t sleep… Check this out
Earlier this year Mary Davis, the lead vocalist for the S.O.S. Band, was reported ill and planned to retire. I’ve not heard any updates but naturally I’m hoping she’s doing well and wishing her the best. I remember this Jam & Lewis production and how the intro grabbed me. Check out this recent video. (Okay, quick quiz: What was the Original name of the S.O.S. Band?*)
Brazil’s former Minister of Culture (2003 to 2008), political and environmental activist and world reknown musician Gilberto Gil is included. This brother from Bahia helped popularize Reggae in Brazil, is a winner of multiple Grammys and international awards Awards. Put an ear on his “Quanta” CD
This is the Tribute to Gilberto Gil done by Berklee from whom he received an honorary Doctorate of Music degree. Why? Remember this is about food for thoughts and he thought a lot about a lot of things we could all spend a moment on.
Big Daddy Kane displays Hip Hop at its best. An original member of the Marley Marl led Juice Crew (so was Biz Markie). He’s recognized as one of the most influential MCs ever hands down. He’s worked with the best of the best back in the day when many listeners didn’t know who they were as well as many artists you do know. So, here again, you hear the art of words blended with the art that is music.
Byron Miller, the bassist who nailed my ears to a sonic wall on George Duke’s “Reach for It (they thought it was Stanley), gives up a funky cut to his daughters. I wonder, was this a second helping of the same dish he served us previously on “Reach for It”?
In this latest set is what may be considered a NSFW (language) poem prefaced (it is deep) version of Funkadelic’s “Maggot Brain”. Having been to a live Parliament/Funkadelic concert back “in the day” I can say to those who have not, feeling fortunate doesn’t begin to cover “it”.
What makes this version special is hearing Eddie Hazel and Michael Hampton together. A careful listener can hear the two guitars complement each other. Hampton starts off on lead. Midway, Hazel comes in on lead. Unsurprisingly to me, the drummer (is that Dennis Chambers?) and bass player are both right there with them. Take a listen (or better yet watch it here) and hopefully by doing so, you’ll Free Your Mind and let your Ass follow as well.
There are many more artists not listed here who deserve a listen and continued support. And you should support those who “touch” you just as you’d want the support of those you care about. I see this is getting long! So, I’ll end with this:
*The then Atlanta based S.O.S. Band’s original name was “Sounds of Santa Monica”
P.S.: Answer = Yes. All of the pictures are color. Hover over them with your mouse.
Stay sane/healthy and thanks for listening!
