Sometimes it’s easier to give an example than to try to explain or define something. If you say a song is “funky” you can look up a definition, but it still might not be clear. For me, Sly and the Family Stone’s tune “I Want to Take You Higher” is one song I would label funky.
The shared bass and guitar riff definitely contribute to the overall feeling of funk on this song, which was written by Sly Stone. I don’t want to say the song is simple because it has multiple elements to it, but it’s the riff and the shouts of “Higher!” that make the song. I bet it makes for a fun ensemble song like this example with Jeff Beck.
There’s another version where Beck plays the vocal riff on guitar while answering the singer. I found a few other interesting names on the list of musicians who have covered this song. The list includes Hanson, Duran Duran, and more. There could be a Part Two.
Till next time, keep your Mojo on the Horizon!
Mojo Horizon 