Music Is the Message
Kool & The Gang · 1972
34 min · 8 tracks · funk · jazz · R&B
A vibrant fusion of funk and soul that grooves with infectious energy and playful instrumentation.
Why this album works
'Music Is the Message' is significant for its early contribution to the funk genre, showcasing the band’s evolving identity. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative arrangements and laid the groundwork for Kool & The Gang's future commercial success, particularly during the late 1970s disco boom.
- Best for
- infectious grooves for dancing playful energy for celebrations steady rhythm for social gatherings
- Context
- Released on July 1, 1972, 'Music Is the Message' was Kool & The Gang's third studio album, following their self-titled debut and 'Live at the Sex Machine'. At this juncture, the band was still establishing their unique sound that would later dominate the funk scene, blending jazz influences with rhythm and blues.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Christina Aguilera· Bob Dylan· Diana Ross· John Coltrane· Charles Mingus· Thelonious Monk· Barbra Streisand· Madonna
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Music Is the Message Standout 5:21
- 2 Electric Frog, Part 1 3:46
- 3 Electric Frog, Part 2 3:05
- 4 Soul Vibrations 4:42
- 5 Love the Life You Live, Parts 1 & 2 Standout 5:43
- 6 Stop, Look, Listen (to Your Heart) Standout 3:28
- 7 Blowin’ With the Wind 2:34
- 8 Funky Granny 5:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.