Commemorating Windrush reminds us of the influx of talent from the Caribbean to the UK and all that became “Black Britain” in the mid-20th century.
Brit-Funk emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a vibrant and distinctive genre, reflecting the cultural and musical influences of the first generation of Black British artists. This genre, a fusion of American funk, soul, and jazz with a uniquely British twist, became a defining sound for a new generation. Bands like Light of the World, Incognito, Imagination, Beggar & Co, Linx, Second Image, and Direct Drive spearheaded this movement, creating music that was not only rhythmically compelling but also culturally significant.
Light of the World, one of the pioneering Brit-Funk bands, played a crucial role in shaping the genre. Their blend of jazz-funk with infectious grooves set the standard for others to follow. Hits like “London Town” and “Time” showcased their ability to create danceable yet sophisticated tracks. Their influence extended beyond their music, inspiring a sense of identity and pride within the Black British community.
Linx, another key player in the Brit-Funk scene, brought a distinct vocal style and lyrical depth to the genre. Their hit “You’re Lying” is a testament to their knack for combining catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. Linx’s music often touched on themes of love, social issues, and personal empowerment, resonating deeply with audiences. Their success helped pave the way for Brit-Funk to gain mainstream recognition. And let’s not forget “Intuition” with David Grant’s teasing vocal storytelling and the sound of steel drums in the background lifting disco sounds to something richer and more unique to the British Soul scene.
Second Image, known for their energetic performances and polished sound, added another layer to Brit-Funk’s rich tapestry. Their tracks like “Starting Again” and “Special Lady” exemplified their ability to blend funk rhythms with soulful harmonies. Second Image’s music was a celebration of life and love, often characterized by its upbeat tempo and positive vibes. They contributed significantly to the genre’s popularity and helped solidify its place in the UK music scene.
Direct Drive, with their jazz-infused funk sound, brought a sophisticated edge to Brit-Funk. Songs like “Anything” and “Time’s Running Out” highlighted their technical prowess and innovative approach to music-making. Direct Drive’s intricate compositions and tight arrangements set them apart, showcasing the versatility and creativity within the Brit-Funk genre. Their work demonstrated the genre’s potential for complexity and depth, elevating it beyond just dance music.
And in terms of making the sound available, Morgan Khan, the visionary behind the StreetSounds label, played an instrumental role in promoting Brit-Funk and bringing it to a wider audience. His compilation albums, which included tracks from various Brit-Funk artists, helped the genre gain traction and reach listeners who might not have discovered it otherwise. Khan’s efforts in curating and promoting this music were pivotal in establishing Brit-Funk as a significant force in the British music industry.
Freeez, another standout band in the Brit-Funk movement, achieved international success with their hit “Southern Freeez.” Known for their catchy hooks and infectious rhythms, Freeez brought a fresh and modern sound to the genre. Their success on the charts helped to further solidify Brit-Funk’s place in the global music landscape and demonstrated the genre’s wide appeal.
Brit-Funk was more than just a musical phenomenon; it was a cultural movement that gave voice to the experiences and aspirations of Black British youth. It provided a platform for artistic expression and community solidarity, influencing future generations of musicians and shaping the broader landscape of British music. The legacy of bands like Light of the World, Linx, Second Image, Direct Drive, and Freeez, alongside the pioneering efforts of Morgan Khan, continues to resonate, reminding us of a time when a new sound captured the spirit of a generation and left an indelible mark on the music world.
Here’s Linx with that standout “Intuition” – we knew intuitively that this was a sound that was ours!
Perry Timms
21 June 2024
Perry is Founder and Chief Energy Officer of People and Transformational HR Ltd (PTHR) and is a Chartered Member of the CIPD, a fellow of the RSA and Visiting Professor at 4x Business Schools in the UK. Perry is a 3x published author; a 2x TEDx Speaker and 6x Member of HR’s Most Influential Thinkers List.
Perry’s musical heritage is in music of black origin and particularly 1960s American R&B and British Soul & Funk from the 1980s-date.