The albums that define
funk.
Our picks for where to start with funk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top funk artists
Start with one of these.
The funk essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
The Temptations
Still Here
A heartfelt blend of soul and R&B that reflects both nostalgia and resilience in its melodies.
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Prince
The Black Album
A provocative blend of funk, rock, and provocative lyrics that challenges societal norms and personal boundaries.
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Take That
Progressed
A vibrant blend of pop and funk that captures nostalgia while pushing forward with contemporary sounds.
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Herbie Hancock
Takin' Off
A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies.
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Kendrick Lamar
Untitled Unmastered
A raw and introspective collection of unfinished thoughts blending jazz, hip-hop, and social commentary.
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Donald Glover
3.15.20
A kaleidoscopic exploration of genre blending, seamlessly merging psychedelic grooves with introspective lyricism.
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Donald Glover
Atavista
A kaleidoscopic blend of funk, R&B, and psychedelic sounds that captures existential musings.
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Lola Índigo
Akelarre
A vibrant blend of Latin pop and funk, brimming with infectious energy and bold themes of empowerment.
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George Benson
Absolute Benson
A vibrant blend of smooth jazz and funk that showcases Benson's virtuosic guitar work and soulful vocals.
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George Benson
The George Benson Collection
A smooth blend of jazz, R&B, and pop that showcases Benson's virtuosic guitar work and soulful vocals.
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Jovanotti
OYEAH
An eclectic blend of hip-hop, folk, and world music rhythms that radiate positivity and vibrancy.
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Jovanotti
Lorenzo 2002 – Il quinto mondo
A vibrant fusion of pop, hip-hop, and world music, imbued with introspective lyrics and infectious rhythms.
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Dr. John
Locked Down
A gritty blend of funk, blues, and rock that captures the spirit of New Orleans with a modern twist.
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Dr. John
Babylon
A vibrant blend of New Orleans rhythms, bluesy melodies, and psychedelic rock textures that captivates the senses.
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The Temptations
Together
A vibrant fusion of soul and funk that showcases harmonious vocals against infectious grooves.
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Casiopea
Jive Jive
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and pop that invites listeners to dance and groove.
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Casiopea
Casiopea Perfect Live II
A vibrant showcase of jazz fusion infused with funk rhythms and intricate musicianship.
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Herbie Hancock
Butterfly
A seamless blend of jazz-funk grooves and soulful melodies, inviting listeners to a lush auditory landscape.
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Aretha Franklin
A Brand New Me (Aretha Franklin album)
A soulful tapestry of classic hits reimagined with lush orchestration and Aretha's timeless vocal power.
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Aretha Franklin
Jump to It
A vibrant blend of funk and soul, showcasing Franklin's powerful vocals over infectious grooves.
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