Play That Funky Music
by Wild Cherry
What is “Play That Funky Music” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
In 'Play That Funky Music,' Wild Cherry narrates the journey of a white musician embracing and excelling in the realm of funk music, despite initial skepticism from others and personal doubts. The song celebrates the transformative power of music and self-acceptance.
So… what’s this song really about?
At its core, 'Play That Funky Music' is a vibrant narrative about breaking musical and social boundaries. The song recounts the experiences of the narrator, who initially feels out of place in the funk scene, perceived predominantly as an African American genre. Overcoming his own misconceptions and the incredulity of his peers, the narrator finds a new identity in embracing funk music. This shift is not just about musical style but is also metaphorical for personal growth and breaking cultural constraints. The repeated encouragement to 'play that funky music' serves as a jubilant affirmation of finding one's voice and authentic self in an unlikely setting.
The appeal of the song also lies in its universal message of resilience and adaptation. As the musician transitions from rock and roll to funk, the narrative reveals a deeper commentary on the fluidity of music genres and the arbitrary nature of racial and cultural barriers in music. The festive atmosphere depicted in the lyrics highlights a communal experience of joy and acceptance, reinforcing the idea that music is a universal language capable of transcending societal divisions and personal challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who wrote 'Play That Funky Music'?
Rob Parissi, the lead singer of Wild Cherry, wrote 'Play That Funky Music'.
Q: What year was 'Play That Funky Music' released?
The song was released in 1976.
Q: What genre does 'Play That Funky Music' belong to?
The song belongs to the funk and rock genres.
Lyrics to “Play That Funky Music”
31 Contributors
[Verse 2]
A-heh, I tried to understand this (Yeah)
Heh, I thought that they were out of their minds
Heh, how could I be so foolish, how could I
To not see I was the one behind?
So still I kept on fighting
Well, losing every step of the way (Hey, what'd you do?)
I said, "I must go back there", I got to go back
And check to see if things still the same
[Pre-Chorus]
Yeah, they were dancing and singing
And moving to the grooving
And just when it hit me
Somebody turned around and shouted
[Chorus]
"Play that funky music, white boy (Yeah)
Play that funky music right, oh
Play that funky music, white boy
Lay down the boogie and play that funky music 'til you die", heh
'Til you die (Yeah)
Woah, 'til you die
Gonna play some electrified funky music, yow!
[Guitar Solo]
Ah ha ha
[Verse 3]
Hey, wait a minute, now first it wasn't easy
Changing rock and roll and minds
Yeah, things were getting shaky
(Yeah) I thought I'd have to leave it behind, uh
Ooh, but now it's so much better, it's so much better
I'm funking out in every way
But I'll never lose that feeling, no, I won't
Of how I learned my lesson that day
[Pre-Chorus]
When they were dancing and singing
And moving to the grooving
And just when it hit me
Somebody turned around and shouted
[Chorus]
"Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Lay down the boogie and play that funky music 'til you die", heh heh
'Til you die (Yeah)
Oh, 'til you die, yeah
Come on, let's go!
[Outro]
(They shouted, "Play that funky music") Play that funky music
(Play that funky music) You gotta keep on playing funky music
(Play that funky music) Play that funky music
(Play that funky music) Come on and take you higher
Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right, yeah
Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right, yeah
Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right, yeah
Play that funky music, honky
Play that funky music right