Introduction
Wild Cherry was an American funk rock band formed in the early 1970s. The band is best known for their hit song “Play That Funky Music,” which was released in 1976. The song became a massive hit, and it’s still played frequently on the radio today.
The Song
“Play That Funky Music” was written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Rob Parissi. The song was inspired by an encounter Parissi had with a group of fans who were requesting that the band play some “funky music.” Parissi took that request and turned it into a hit song that would eventually become the band’s signature tune.
The song features a catchy guitar riff, a funky bassline, and an infectious chorus that’s guaranteed to get people dancing. The lyrics are simple but effective, with the chorus repeating the phrase “play that funky music, white boy.”
Success
“Play That Funky Music” was a massive success for Wild Cherry. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and stayed there for three weeks. It also reached number one on the R&B chart and the Disco chart.
The success of the song helped the band’s self-titled debut album reach number four on the Billboard 200 chart. The album was certified platinum, and the band became one of the biggest acts of the disco era.
Cover Versions
“Play That Funky Music” has been covered by numerous artists over the years. One of the most famous covers was by the rock band Vanilla Ice, who sampled the song in his hit “Ice Ice Baby.” Other notable covers include versions by Prince, The Black Eyed Peas, and James Brown.
Legacy
“Play That Funky Music” has become a staple of classic rock and disco radio stations. The song’s catchy chorus and funky groove continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
Wild Cherry may have only had one massive hit, but “Play That Funky Music” remains a timeless classic that will continue to be played for years to come.
Conclusion
Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” is a classic disco tune that has stood the test of time. The song’s catchy chorus and funky groove have made it a favorite of generations of music fans. Its success helped make Wild Cherry one of the biggest acts of the disco era, and the song remains a staple of classic rock and disco radio stations today.
