In a captivating conversation with Arun Rath, host of GBH’s All Things Considered, George Clinton reminisced about the early days of Funkadelic and their groundbreaking live performance on the Boston television show ‘Say Brother’ in 1969.
Clinton, a pioneer of the funk genre, shared how that performance marked a pivotal moment in his career and the evolution of P-Funk. At the time, Funkadelic had yet to release their first album and were experimenting with new sounds that many radio stations were hesitant to air.
‘We were able to go in and do it live,’ Clinton recounted, reflecting on the psychedelic atmosphere and unique energy of that era.
‘I was trippin’ my butt off! As a matter of fact, everybody in the band was.’ He emphasized how the atmosphere of Boston and the psychedelic influences shaped their presentation, lending a certain liberating feel to the show that resonates with him even today.
Rath pointed out the significance of bringing such an avant-garde performance to public television, notably ‘Say Brother’, which later evolved into ‘Basic Black’ and is now known as ‘GBH’s Rooted’. Clinton humorously noted the novelty of live rock performances on television during that period, admitting that they often pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in live TV environments.
Clinton reflected on how their freedom to improvise during the performance led to a unique kind of groove that drove their sound forward. ‘
It was like a freestyle,’ he stated, emphasizing how they created new music in front of a live audience in a way that hadn’t been done before on television.
As the conversation shifted to the style and cultural influences of the late ’60s, Clinton highlighted how his band was surrounded by major musical movements, including the peak of Motown and the British Invasion.
‘By the time we got to Boston, we ran right into Led Zeppelin,’ he said.
Fuelled by the energy of that time, the band embraced a sound that straddled multiple genres, adding layers of rock, funk, and soul to create a distinct musical identity. Clinton also mentioned how their performance on ‘Say Brother’ helped pave the way for future live television appearances.
He humorously remarked about the initial reception of their sound, where many found it ‘too Black for white folks, too white for Black folks’, but over time, their audience diversified greatly.
Clinton explained that they cultivated a passionate fanbase that multiplied with each performance and college tour, seemingly thriving on the ability to connect with younger audiences throughout the decades.
He attributed this crossover appeal to his adaptability and keen sense of what was trending throughout the years, staying relevant and influential in a world of constant change.
Rath and Clinton discussed an array of artists who have been inspired by Funkadelic’s sound, and how this legacy continues today with modern musicians incorporating funk influences into their work.
Notable contemporary acts include Kendrick Lamar, whom Clinton praised for his deep understanding and incorporation of funk into his art. ‘He sounded like he was my age,’ Clinton said, referring to the similarities in the questions raised in their music.
As Clinton looked back on his decades-spanning career, he expressed renewed energy and excitement about his work.
‘I feel like I’m just getting started!’ he exclaimed, recalling a recent performance in Washington, D.C., where the intimate setting allowed for a raw, authentic experience reminiscent of the late ’60s.
Ravishingly, Rath wrapped up the conversation by prompting Clinton to consider what advice he might give to his younger self. Yet, rather than offering specific guidance, Clinton’s philosophy emphasizes joy and creativity—the core of funk music.
In a world where musical expressions become intermingled with social realities, Clinton maintained that his intent has always been to question the status quo with a sense of fun rather than preachiness. ‘Just dance to the question,’ he advised, encapsulating the essence of funk.
Clinton’s impact on music transcends generations, exemplified by a continually evolving audience that embraces the funky adventure of life through every note played. The joy that funk embodies—and the questions it sparks—serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of creativity and joy in the human experience.
image source from：wgbh
