Wild Cherry – Play That Funky Music

About the song

Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” is a classic anthem that has stood the test of time, captivating audiences with its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics. Released in 1976, this upbeat track quickly became a disco phenomenon, dominating dance floors and radio waves worldwide.

The song’s infectious energy is immediately apparent from the opening chords, setting the stage for a joyous celebration of music and dance. The driving bassline and energetic guitar riffs create a hypnotic groove that compels listeners to move their bodies. The song’s infectious chorus, “Play that funky music white boy,” is a rallying cry that encourages everyone to let loose and enjoy the moment.

The lyrics of “Play That Funky Music” are simple yet effective, conveying a message of unity and celebration. The song encourages listeners to put aside their differences and come together to enjoy the universal language of music. The phrase “white boy” in the chorus is a playful nod to the song’s popularity among a diverse audience, suggesting that music transcends racial and cultural boundaries.

Beyond its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, “Play That Funky Music” is also notable for its innovative production. The song features a blend of disco, funk, and soul influences, creating a unique and memorable sound. The use of synthesizers and electronic effects adds a futuristic element to the track, while the incorporation of live instrumentation ensures that it remains grounded in the traditions of popular music.

“Play That Funky Music” has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless artists and influencing the development of dance music genres such as house and techno. The song’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and celebration. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, “Play That Funky Music” is a timeless classic that continues to delight and inspire listeners of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

Hey, do it now

Hey, once I was a boogie singer
Playin’ in a rock-and-roll band
I never had no problems
Burnin’ down the one-night stands

And everything around me
Got to start to feelin’ so low
And I decided quickly
Yes, I did
To disco down and check out the show

Yeah they were dancin’ and singin’
And movin’ to the groovin’
And just when it hit me
Somebody turned around and shouted

“Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Lay down that boogie
And play that funky music ’til you die.”

‘Til you die?

I tried to understand this
I thought that they were out of their minds
How could I be so foolish
To not see I was the one behind

So still I kept on fighting
Well, losing every step by the way
… we can do
I said, I must go back there
I got to go back
And check to see if things still the same

When they were dancin’ and singin’
And movin’ to the groovin’
And just when it hit me
Somebody turned around and shouted

“Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Lay down that boogie
And play that funky music ’til you die.”

‘Til you die?
Oh, ’til you die

Gonna play some electrified funky music

Hey, wait a minute

Now first it wasn’t easy
Changing rock-and-rolling minds
And things were gettin’ shaky
I thought I’d have to leave it behind

Oh, 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 feelin’ (you know, I won’t)
Of how I learned my lesson that day

When they were dancin’ and singin’
And movin’ to the groovin’
And just when it hit me
Somebody turned around and shouted

“Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Lay down that boogie
And play that funky music ’til you die.”

‘Til you die?
Oh, ’til you die

They shouted

“Play that funky music
Play that funky music
Play that funky music
You got to keep on playin’ funky music
Play that funky music
Play that funky music
Play that funky music
Gonna take you high and low.”

“Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right

Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right
Play that funky music, white boy
Play that funky music right.”