New PBS documentary explores funk music’s revolutionary roots

New PBS documentary explores funk music’s revolutionary roots

“We Want the Funk!” is a documentary that explores the essence of funk music through interviews with key figures in the genre. The film delves into the origins and evolution of funk, highlighting its

significance as a form of Black cultural expression. Through anecdotes and insights from musicians like George Clinton and David Byrne, the documentary captures the elusive nature of funk and its

enduring impact on music. With a focus on artists like James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Talking Heads, “We Want the Funk!” celebrates the genre’s influence and innovation, showcasing its

ability to transcend boundaries and inspire creativity.

In this documentary, George Clinton was asked by Todd Boyd, why is it so hard to define the funk? “I know why you’re confused … because it’s like, it’s an attitude,” says Clinton, whose 1976 single

with Parliament, “Give Up the Funk (Tear the Roof Off the Sucker),” has a chorus chant which gives the documentary its name. “Funk is anything it needs to be, in the moment it needs to be that.”

 We Want the Funk!, a loving and detailed new documentary from PBS’ Independent Lens series, now available on PBS’ app and YouTube.

, Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/04/08/nx-s1-5312006/we-want-the-funk-pbs-documentary