Wild Cherry – What In The Funk Do You See: A Groovy Inquiry into the Heart of Funk
In the vibrant tapestry of 1970s music, few bands encapsulated the effervescent spirit of funk quite like Wild Cherry. Known primarily for their explosive hit “Play That Funky Music,” this band didn’t just ride the wave of funk; they helped define its essence. Nestled within their self-titled debut album is a track that, while not as universally recognized, carries an infectious groove and an introspective curiosity: “What In The Funk Do You See.”
Released in 1976, during a time when disco and funk were dominating dance floors across America, this song might not have reached the dizzying heights on the charts like its more famous sibling. Yet, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the deeper cuts of that era. While specific chart positions for “What In The Funk Do You See” may not be documented with fanfare, its significance lies beyond commercial metrics—it’s about capturing a moment and a feeling.
The story behind Wild Cherry is one rooted in perseverance and adaptability. Formed in Steubenville, Ohio, the band initially dabbled in hard rock before pivoting to funk—a decision that would ultimately lead them to stardom. This transition wasn’t just a change in musical style; it was an embrace of a cultural movement that celebrated rhythm, community, and exuberance. “What In The Funk Do You See” serves as both a testament to their journey and an invitation for listeners to engage with what makes funk so compelling.
Lyrically, “What In The Funk Do You See” poses an intriguing question—one that invites introspection from both performer and audience alike. It’s as if Wild Cherry is holding up a mirror to its listeners, asking them to reflect on what draws them into this pulsating world of syncopated beats and soulful basslines. The song captures the essence of funk not just as music but as an experience—a shared connection between artist and listener that’s felt deep within one’s core.
Musically, the track is quintessentially funky—with groovy guitar riffs, dynamic horn sections, and rhythms that dare you not to move your feet. It’s these elements combined with Rob Parissi’s spirited vocals that create an atmosphere ripe for nostalgia among those who lived through those heady days or long for their revival.
For older generations who may have danced away nights under glittering disco balls or tuned into radio stations blasting these energetic sounds, revisiting “What In The Funk Do You See” offers more than just nostalgia—it’s a reminder of youth’s boundless energy coupled with moments spent connecting over shared musical experiences.
In essence, Wild Cherry‘s inquiry isn’t merely rhetorical; it’s reflective—urging each listener to delve deeper into their own relationship with music’s most liberating genre. So whether you’re rekindling old memories or discovering it anew through streaming platforms today—let yourself be enveloped by this timeless groove where every note echoes freedom while celebrating life’s joyful spontaneity.
As you listen once more—or perhaps even for the first time—to “What In The Funk Do You See,” allow yourself to ponder along with Parissi: What indeed do we find amidst these irresistible rhythms? Perhaps therein lies funk’s greatest magic—that each answer remains uniquely yours yet universally understood among all who heed its call…
Oldies Songs