The GRAMMY Museum recently hosted a special evening featuring the legendary funk musician Bootsy Collins at its intimate Clive Davis Theater. The event celebrated the release of his latest album, “Album Of The Year #1 Funkateer,” and included an insightful discussion about his creative process and career highlights moderated by Ice Cube.
Bootsy Collins expressed his philosophy on music creation, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with energetic and talented musicians. “When I start on a project now, it’s about getting the energy from people around me,” he explained. He reflected on the collaborative nature of the funk genre, noting that the essence of his music stems from the collective efforts and vibrant spirit of the artists he works with.
Collins shared memories from the early days of his career, particularly his pivotal moment when he and his brother Catfish were hired by James Brown in 1970 to replace his backing band, the Famous Flames. He noted, “I understand now why we were really important at that particular time for James Brown. It wasn’t just the music. It was because we were lit up, and I understand that more now.”
The funk maestro highlighted the value of new, young artists, stating that their fresh energy inspires him. “With the young artists that are really on fire, I get lit up, and it reminds me that you don’t have to just stand around and not be feeling it, you can be absorbing all this fresh, new energy.” His transition from being a player to a mentor aims to help and inspire the next generation of musicians.
Collins spoke passionately about the power of funk music to unite people during challenging times. “This whole groovement is for everybody to know that we funk together. Funk ain’t just a smell, funk is our survival,” he said, stressing the importance of community and collaboration. He emphasized the need for collective resilience in today’s world, stating, “Everything is so messed up, anything could happen at any given time. So the funk is trying to let everybody know that we need to come together as one, in all of our communities and all the countries.”
In his own words, Collins articulated a sense of responsibility, saying, “It’s my duty to do my duty, so I keep throwing it out there. Manure is what makes the shit grow. That’s what the funk is. If you ain’t got no funk, you ain’t growing nowhere.”
The event also included important logistical details, as attendees were informed of a strict bag policy, allowing only small bags of 9 inches by 6 inches or smaller inside the venue. Guests were instructed that vinyl, memorabilia, and gifts would not be admitted to ensure security and comfort during the intimate performance.
Ticketing details emphasized the exclusive nature of the event, which was structured as will-call only, requiring physical ID for check-in. Members of the GRAMMY Museum enjoyed priority access at specific times, with American Express cardholders given early ticket purchasing opportunities for these select events.
The ticket policy also included firm stipulations regarding the non-transferability of tickets, stressing that any violations could result in ejection from the venue. Patrons were reminded that the event would be documented through audio and visual means, granting the Recording Academy rights to use any recorded images or sounds.
Overall, the event offered not just an experience of live music but also a deeper understanding of Bootsy Collins’s legacy and philosophy. The evening was a vibrant reminder of the significance of funk music in fostering connections and encouraging creative collaboration across generations.
Hopeful and spirited, Collins’s discourse at the GRAMMY Museum served to inspire attendees not only to appreciate funk music but also to embrace their creativity and community ties as essential elements in the face of adversity.
As this influential figure continues to share his journey and insights, many look forward to his ongoing contributions to the music world and beyond.
image source from：https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/event/2025/05/30/a-conversation-with-bootsy-collins
