Check out these new and used Funky Four Plus One vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Funky Four Plus One vinyl collection with the essential albums Rappin & Rocking The House, The Bomb and Feel It. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from hip-hop and rap musicians.

Funky Four Plus One: Pioneers of Hip-Hop Culture

The Genesis of Funky Four Plus One Vinyl

Funky Four Plus One Vinyl, a groundbreaking hip-hop group, emerged from the vibrant streets of the South Bronx in the late 1970s. Comprising Sha Rock, KK Rockwell, Keith Keith, Rodney Cee, and DJ Breakout, the group gained prominence for being one of the earliest hip-hop acts to include a female MC, setting the stage for the diverse landscape the genre would later embrace.

Breaking Ground with “Rappin’ and Rockin’ the House”

Funky Four Plus One Vinyl’s debut single, “Rappin’ and Rockin’ the House,” released in 1979, marked a historic moment in hip-hop history. This track showcased their lyrical prowess and ability to engage audiences with their unique blend of rap and funk. The catchy beats and infectious energy established them as a force to be reckoned with in the burgeoning hip-hop scene.

Exploring “That’s the Joint”

The group’s second single, “That’s the Joint,” released in 1980, further solidified their position as pioneers of hip-hop culture. The track became an anthem for the genre, featuring dynamic rhymes, a funky bassline, and innovative use of sampling. “That’s the Joint” remains a timeless classic that continues to influence contemporary hip-hop artists.

Diving into “Funky Four Plus One More”

In 1980, Funky Four Plus One Vinyl released their debut album, “Funky Four Plus One More.” The album showcased their versatility, combining elements of funk, disco, and rap. Songs like “We’re the Funky Four Plus One” and “Do You Want to Rock (Before I Let Go)” highlighted the group’s ability to keep the crowd energized while delivering socially conscious lyrics.

Evolution with “Jus’ Gettin’ Down”

The group’s sophomore album, “Jus’ Gettin’ Down,” released in 1983, demonstrated Funky Four Plus One Vinyl’s evolution as artists. The album featured a more polished sound, incorporating elements of electro-funk and showcasing the group’s growth in terms of production and lyrical complexity. Tracks like “Jus’ Gettin’ Down” and “Feel It” exemplified their commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.

Influences and Inspirations

The Sugarhill Gang: Early Collaborations

Funky Four Plus One Vinyl shared a significant connection with The Sugarhill Gang, both being signed to Sugar Hill Records. This collaboration helped pave the way for the group’s success and contributed to the early development of hip-hop as a genre.

Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five: The Bronx Connection

Hailing from the same borough, Funky Four Plus One Vinyl and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five had a mutual influence on each other’s music. The innovative turntablism of Grandmaster Flash and the socially conscious lyricism of the Furious Five inspired Funky Four Plus One Vinyl to explore new dimensions within their own sound.

Legacy and Impact

Funky Four Plus One Vinyl’s impact on hip-hop culture extends beyond their pioneering role in the genre’s early days. The inclusion of Sha Rock as a female MC challenged gender norms within hip-hop, paving the way for future generations of female artists. Their energetic stage performances and dynamic collaborations set a standard for live hip-hop shows that continues to influence artists today.

Contemporary Relevance

Despite their relatively short discography, Funky Four Plus One Vinyl’s influence persists in the contemporary hip-hop landscape. Artists like Missy Elliott, Lauryn Hill, and Nicki Minaj have acknowledged the group’s contributions to the genre, citing them as trailblazers who paved the way for diversity and innovation.

Final Notes

Funky Four Plus One Vinyl’s legacy as pioneers of hip-hop culture remains firmly intact. From their early singles to their later, more experimental albums, the group consistently pushed the boundaries of what hip-hop could be. Their influence on subsequent generations of artists, combined with their role in diversifying the genre, cements their place in the annals of hip-hop history. As the culture continues to evolve, Funky Four Plus One Vinyl stands as a testament to the power of innovation and fearlessness in shaping the future of music.