Funky Flashback: Grooving Through the History of Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music”

Bringing Funk to the Mainstream: The Story of Wild Cherry

In the mid-1970s, when disco was dominating the airwaves, a relatively unknown band defied the odds and made a major splash on the music scene with their hit song “Play That Funky Music.” Wild Cherry, led by frontman Rob Parissi, gave the world an unforgettable and catchy tune that would leave an indelible mark on popular music.

Formed in Steubenville, Ohio in 1970, Wild Cherry was primarily focused on playing hard rock music. However, their transition to a funkier sound was prompted by the changing musical landscape around them. Parissi, guitarist Bryan Bassett, bassist Allen Wentz, and drummer Ron Beitle made the conscious decision to embrace this new style, and that proved to be a turning point in their careers.

Originally released in 1976, “Play That Funky Music” became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and selling over two million copies in the United States alone. The song’s infectious funky rhythm and Parissi’s smooth, charismatic vocals resonated with audiences, making it an instant dance floor classic.

On the critical side, some might argue that Wild Cherry became somewhat of a one-hit-wonder, as none of their subsequent releases ever matched the success of “Play That Funky Music.” Nonetheless, the band continued to perform and release albums through the late 1970s, experimenting with a variety of genres, including jazz and R&B. One could make the case that the band’s constant musical shifts might have contributed to their inability to recreate the success of their breakthrough hit.

Despite their limited commercial achievements, Wild Cherry’s music has been recognized and celebrated within the industry. “Play That Funky Music” garnered two Grammy Award nominations in 1977 – Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance and Best New Artist. Although the band did not take home any trophies, the nominations alone were a testament to the impact of their signature song.

Though Wild Cherry disbanded in 1979, their legacy continues to live on. “Play That Funky Music” remains a staple at parties and events worldwide, ensuring that the band’s moment in the spotlight will never be forgotten. Rob Parissi went on to become a successful songwriter and producer, while guitarist Bryan Bassett found further acclaim as a member of the bands Molly Hatchet and Foghat.

In conclusion, Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” is undeniably an iconic tune that encapsulates the spirit of a bygone era. Despite their fleeting success in the 1970s, the band’s undeniable talent and commitment to their craft have left a lasting impression on music enthusiasts around the globe.

Chart-topping Funk Phenomenon

When it comes to chart success, “Play That Funky Music” truly left its mark on the musical landscape. Released on April 5, 1976, the song initially debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at position number 86. However, it wasn’t long before the infectious groove of this funky anthem catapulted Wild Cherry to the top of the charts.

By September 18, 1976, “Play That Funky Music” reached its peak chart position, hitting the coveted number 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. This wasn’t the only chart that embraced the song with open arms, as it also secured the number 1 spot on the Record World Singles Chart and the Cash Box Singles Chart, making it a triple threat in the music industry. The track remained a chart-topping phenomenon for three consecutive weeks, solidifying its status as a certified funk classic.

Not only did the song experience immense success in the United States, but it also garnered international acclaim. In Canada, “Play That Funky Music” peaked at number 2 on the RPM Top Singles chart, while it reached number 7 on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing its undeniable appeal across the globe.

The sustained popularity of “Play That Funky Music” is evidenced by the fact that it has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying over one million copies sold. To this day, the song remains not only Wild Cherry’s most successful single but also an enduring representation of the band’s unique blend of rock and funk that captured the hearts and ears of listeners worldwide.

Dissecting the Lyrics of an Iconic Funk Anthem

When we dive into the lyrics of “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry, we get a glimpse into the spirit of the 1970s. The song was written in 1976 by Rob Parissi, the lead singer and guitarist of this one-hit-wonder band. At the time, the music scene was shifting from rock ‘n’ roll to funk and disco, which would dominate the latter half of the decade. The lyrics are a reflection of this transition, chronicling the experiences of a musician who finds himself caught in the middle of this changing landscape.

The protagonist, a rock ‘n’ roll singer, is feeling low and uninspired. Then, he decides to check out a new musical scene, where people are “dancin’ and singin’ and movin’ to the groovin’.” It’s here that he’s told to “play that funky music, white boy,” and it seems like an awakening for him. He’s encouraged to lay down the boogie and embrace this new style of music, effectively closing the chapter on his rock ‘n’ roll days.

The lyrics not only describe the protagonist’s personal journey but also represent the broader shift in popular music. The 1970s was a time of experimentation and breaking down barriers, and “Play That Funky Music” embodies that spirit in its lyrics. The song’s message is one of embracing change and new experiences, allowing oneself to let go of the past and adapt to the present.

Moreover, the line “play that funky music, white boy” is a reminder of the diverse influences that contributed to the development of funk music. The genre’s roots lie in African-American musical traditions, and its incorporation into mainstream music was a significant cultural moment. The message could also be interpreted as an invitation to people of all backgrounds to participate in the creation and enjoyment of music, transcending racial and cultural divides.

In conclusion, the lyrics of “Play That Funky Music” capture the essence of the 1970s, a time of cultural and musical evolution. This iconic song remains a testament to the power of embracing change, breaking boundaries, and the unifying force of music.

A Visual Celebration of Funky Grooves

While there isn’t an official music video for Wild Cherry’s classic hit “Play That Funky Music,” the song’s iconic status in funk and rock music history has inspired fans and music enthusiasts to create their own visual interpretations of the song. These fan-made videos and live performance recordings have allowed the song to maintain its influence and popularity, even decades after its original release.

One such fan-created video showcases a compilation of various dance scenes from classic films and TV shows, all synchronized to the catchy beat of “Play That Funky Music.” From John Travolta’s iconic moves in “Saturday Night Fever” to the legendary James Brown’s stage performances, this video encapsulates the spirit of the groovy era that inspired the song’s creation. It’s a fun and entertaining way to enjoy the song while appreciating the dance moves that defined the era.

Additionally, YouTube is home to numerous tributes and covers of “Play That Funky Music” by both amateur and professional musicians. These videos showcase the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to inspire new generations of music lovers. One notable cover is by the talented guitarist, Music is Win, who adds a modern flair to the classic track while retaining its original charm.

Another popular video features a live performance of “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry themselves on the Midnight Special TV show. This video transports viewers back to 1976, giving them an authentic taste of the band’s live energy and stage presence. Through this rare footage, fans can witness the band’s chemistry and appreciate the magic that made this song an instant hit.

In the absence of an official music video for “Play That Funky Music,” the creative and nostalgic fan-made videos on YouTube serve as a testament to the song’s lasting impact. These visual tributes, along with the live performance footage, continue to engage and entertain fans of all ages, ensuring that Wild Cherry’s memorable contribution to the history of funk and rock music won’t fade away anytime soon.

The Maestro Behind the Tune: Rob Parissi

Rob Parissi, a man with a penchant for funk, was the mastermind behind the infectious groove of “Play That Funky Music.” Born on December 6, 1951, in Mingo Junction, Ohio, Parissi was not only the composer but also the frontman for Wild Cherry. As a visionary, he knew how to get the crowd moving and was no stranger to composing intoxicating, dance-worthy tunes. One of the other notable songs he penned was “Hot to Trot,” which, while it may not have reached the iconic status of “Play That Funky Music,” still showcased his natural ability to create groovy beats and catchy melodies. Parissi’s gift for songwriting, combined with his passion for funk, helped solidify Wild Cherry’s place in the annals of music history.

A Funky Legacy

Since its release in 1976, “Play That Funky Music” has become an iconic song that continues to engage audiences and inspire artists. The song’s incredible commercial success led to numerous accolades and recognition. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three weeks and achieved the RIAA Gold certification in the same year. The song also received a Grammy nomination for Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance – Duo, Group or Chorus in 1977.

“Play That Funky Music” has been featured in various forms of popular culture, further cementing its status as a classic. From movies to TV shows and video games, this funky anthem has found a place across different types of entertainment. The song has made appearances in movies like “Undercover Brother” (2002) and “Evolution” (2001), and TV shows like “The Simpsons” and “Everybody Hates Chris”. The catchy tune has also been part of video games like “Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock” (2010) and “Just Dance 3” (2011), where players can rock out to the infectious rhythm.

The song’s undeniable groove and energy have inspired numerous cover versions over the years. One of the most notable covers is by the American rock musician, Vanilla Ice. His 1990 reinterpretation, “Play That Funky Music (White Boy)”, became a massive hit and further popularized the song for a new generation. Artists from various genres have also taken a stab at the classic, such as The Moog Cookbook, an electronic duo known for their synth-heavy arrangements, and the country music group, Home Free. The widespread appeal of “Play That Funky Music” has transcended musical boundaries, giving the song a diverse and long-lasting legacy.

Dissecting the Funk

Diving into the musical structure of this iconic tune, “Play That Funky Music” is written in the key of E minor, a popular choice for funk and rock songs due to its edgy sound. The song’s chord progression is fairly straightforward, predominantly featuring the chords Em7, D, and A. The simplicity of the chord structure allows the song’s signature funky rhythm guitar and bass lines to stand out, driving the groove that keeps listeners hooked.

The tempo of “Play That Funky Music” is set at a lively 110 beats per minute (BPM), a moderate pace that encourages listeners to dance along while also allowing for the intricate rhythmic patterns to shine. The song’s time signature is 4/4, which is the most common time signature in popular music and further contributes to the danceability of the track.

One of the key elements that makes this song so memorable is its use of syncopation in the guitar and bass parts. Syncopation is the technique of playing off-beat rhythms, creating an unexpected and engaging groove. The tight interplay between the guitar, bass, and drums forms the backbone of the song, with each instrument adding its own rhythmic embellishments to create the overall funky feel.

Another noteworthy aspect of the song is the use of horns, which punctuate the arrangement and provide a bright, energetic counterpoint to the darker, more groove-oriented rhythm section. The horns also contribute to the overall “call and response” structure of the song, a classic feature of funk music that adds to the dynamic interplay between the various instruments.

In terms of the song’s form, “Play That Funky Music” follows the common verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure. The bridge section offers a brief departure from the main groove, giving the listener a moment of respite before the final, infectious chorus kicks in. This well-crafted structure keeps the song engaging from start to finish, ensuring that the listener never tires of the funky music being played.

In conclusion, the combination of a simple chord progression, syncopated rhythms, bright horns, and a well-crafted song structure all come together to create the irresistible groove that makes “Play That Funky Music” a timeless classic. The song’s unique blend of funk and rock elements has ensured its enduring popularity and influence in the world of music.