Introduction
Since its release in 1976, Wild Cherry’s hit single “Play That Funky Music” has become a classic dance anthem. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and is still played regularly in clubs and at parties today. This article will explore who sings “Play That Funky Music”, looking at the history of the song, the story behind its making, and its influence on other musicians.
A History of Who Sang “Play That Funky Music”
“Play That Funky Music” was written and recorded by the American funk rock group Wild Cherry. The band was formed in 1970 in Steubenville, Ohio and consisted of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Rob Parissi, bassist Allen Wentz, drummer Ron Beitle, and keyboardist Bryan Bassett.
The song was released as the lead single from Wild Cherry’s self-titled debut album in 1976 and quickly became a commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart that same year, becoming the group’s only number one hit.
The lyrics of the song are about a person asking for music to be played that will get people on the dance floor. The chorus goes: “Play that funky music white boy/ Play that funky music right/ Play that funky music white boy/ Lay down the boogie and play that funky music till you die.”
How Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” Became a Classic
Upon its release, “Play That Funky Music” was a massive commercial success. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained in the top 10 for six weeks. It also topped the charts in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The song received positive reviews from critics upon its release. Rolling Stone magazine described it as “a hard-charging slice of funk-rock with a memorable hook”, while AllMusic praised the song’s “swirling organ lines and chugging guitar riffs”.
The Story Behind the Making of “Play That Funky Music”
Rob Parissi wrote and sang “Play That Funky Music”. He had been inspired to write the song after hearing a disco version of the old Chuck Berry song “Johnny B. Goode” at a club in Pittsburgh. Parissi said, “I wanted to write something that sounded like this, but with a harder edge and more attitude.”
Recording for the song took place in Cleveland, Ohio. Parissi, Wentz, and Beitle played their parts live, while Bassett overdubbed his keyboard parts later. Parissi said, “I just wanted to make sure that I got the feel of the song right. I wanted it to be tight, but not too slick.”
An Interview with Rob Parissi, Writer and Singer of “Play That Funky Music”
In an interview with NPR, Parissi reflected on the inspiration behind “Play That Funky Music” and its lasting legacy. He said, “When I heard that disco version of ‘Johnny B. Goode,’ I knew I wanted to write something similar, but with my own style. I think people have connected to the song because it’s fun and upbeat. It makes people want to dance.”
He continued, “I never expected that the song would become such a classic, but I’m honored and humbled by the fact that it has. To know that people are still listening to it and enjoying it after all these years is really gratifying.”
Exploring the Influence of “Play That Funky Music” on Other Musicians
Since its release, “Play That Funky Music” has gone on to influence a variety of musicians. Artists such as The Black Eyed Peas, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Bruno Mars have all cited the song as an influence.
The song has also been sampled by other artists, including rapper LL Cool J on his 1989 single “Going Back to Cali”. In addition, the song has been used in numerous films and television shows, such as The Simpsons and Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.
Comparing Cover Versions of “Play That Funky Music”
Since its release, “Play That Funky Music” has been covered by a number of artists. These include Vanilla Ice, Tone Loc, and Pitbull. While most of the covers retain the original’s infectious energy, they also add their own unique flavor to the song. For example, Vanilla Ice’s version features rap verses, while Tone Loc’s version has a more laid-back groove.
No matter which version is being listened to, the spirit of “Play That Funky Music” remains intact. As Parissi said, “No matter who is covering the song, the message is still the same. Get up and dance!”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. It has been covered by numerous artists and sampled by others, and its influence can be seen in the work of many modern musicians. The song continues to be a favorite at parties and clubs around the world, and its timeless appeal ensures that it will remain a classic for years to come.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)