Essential funk rock listening

The albums that define funk rock.

Our picks for where to start with funk rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The funk rock essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Brother Bear – An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack

Phil Collins

Brother Bear – An Original Walt Disney Records Soundtrack

A heartfelt blend of pop and world music, echoing themes of nature and brotherhood through Phil Collins' emotive songwriting.

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Going Back

Phil Collins

Going Back

A nostalgic collection of Motown classics reimagined through Collins' soulful voice and lush instrumentation.

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It Won't Be Soon Before Long

Maroon 5

It Won't Be Soon Before Long

Catchy hooks and polished production blend pop-rock with funk influences, creating an upbeat yet reflective atmosphere.

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Live – Friday the 13th

Maroon 5

Live – Friday the 13th

Energetic live performances blend pop rock sensibilities with funk-infused grooves, showcasing the band's vibrant stage presence.

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1.22.03.Acoustic

Maroon 5

1.22.03.Acoustic

Acoustic renditions transform Maroon 5's hits into intimate, soulful experiences layered with rich harmonies and subtle instrumentation.

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V

Maroon 5

V

An upbeat blend of pop and funk-infused rock crafted for radio-ready hooks and catchy melodies.

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The Fourth World

Maroon 5

The Fourth World

An eclectic blend of alternative rock and funk-infused melodies wrapped in youthful exuberance.

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Jordi

Maroon 5

Jordi

A polished blend of pop rock and funk rhythms, anchored by heartfelt lyrics reflecting love and loss.

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Call and Response: The Remix Album

Maroon 5

Call and Response: The Remix Album

A vibrant collection of remixes that reimagines Maroon 5's hits with fresh beats and diverse sonic textures.

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Welcome to Wherever You Are

INXS

Welcome to Wherever You Are

A polished blend of rock and dance elements, underscored by introspective lyrics and vibrant melodies.

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Songs About Jane

Maroon 5

Songs About Jane

A blend of funky grooves and catchy melodies that navigate themes of love and heartbreak with pop-rock flair.

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Testify

Phil Collins

Testify

A blend of introspective pop balladry and rhythmic funk rock, infused with Collins' soulful vocals.

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Overexposed

Maroon 5

Overexposed

A polished blend of pop and rock, featuring catchy hooks and glossy production that defined early 2010s mainstream music.

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Red Pill Blues

Maroon 5

Red Pill Blues

A polished blend of pop and funk rock that balances radio-friendly hooks with introspective lyrics.

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Hands All Over

Maroon 5

Hands All Over

A polished blend of pop rock and funk grooves wrapped in catchy melodies and Adam Levine's signature falsetto.

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Zerkalo dushi

Alla Pugacheva

Zerkalo dushi

Enchanting melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, showcasing a blend of Russian pop and chanson influences.

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LivePhish 12: 8.13.96 Deer Creek Music Center, Noblesville, Indiana

Phish

LivePhish 12: 8.13.96 Deer Creek Music Center, Noblesville, Indiana

A vibrant tapestry of improvisational rock, funk grooves, and intricate melodies unfolds over extended jam sessions.

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LivePhish 01: 12.14.95 Broome County Arena, Binghamton, New York)

Phish

LivePhish 01: 12.14.95 Broome County Arena, Binghamton, New York)

Eclectic jams intertwine with playful lyrics, showcasing Phish's improvisational prowess and vibrant stage presence.

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Live Phish 04.05.98

Phish

Live Phish 04.05.98

A vibrant tapestry of improvisation, blending funk grooves with progressive rock melodies in an electrifying live performance.

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Lenny

Lenny Kravitz

Lenny

A vibrant fusion of rock, funk, and soul that showcases Kravitz's eclectic musical palette.

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LivePhish 05: 7.8.00 Alpine Valley Music Theater, East Troy, Wisconsin

Phish

LivePhish 05: 7.8.00 Alpine Valley Music Theater, East Troy, Wisconsin

A vibrant tapestry of improvisational rock, blending intricate jams with playful lyrical storytelling and dynamic energy.

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5

Lenny Kravitz

5

A vibrant fusion of rock, funk, and soul, radiating an infectious energy and rhythmic groove.

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Are You Gonna Go My Way

Lenny Kravitz

Are You Gonna Go My Way

A vibrant fusion of rock, funk, and soul that channels the spirit of classic music while pushing contemporary boundaries.

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LivePhish 03: 9.14.00 Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien Center, New York

Phish

LivePhish 03: 9.14.00 Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien Center, New York

A vibrant tapestry of improvisational jams interwoven with tight, energetic performances and eclectic song selections.

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