During the 1960's African-American musicians decided to get adventurous by blending Soul, jazz, R&B with danceable melodies. What they come up with is a musical revolution that became synonymous to the 1970's and late 60's: The Funk. The typical instruments of funk are electric guitar and bass, Hammond organ, drums, and saxophones. Funk has great sweeping bass lines and unforgettable guitar licks. Wild Cherry's "Play that Funky Music" has a very catchy guitar intro which so recognizable until now. Get ready for some funky beats!
It all starts with your technique
Always remember that when it comes to funky music, rhythm is very important. An eight to sixteen beat pattern is a staple in funk music, so better get your hands ready! To create a percussive sound, practice how to deaden strings using your fretting hand. Funk music generally uses simple patterns unlike rock or blues so this will be a cake walk to you. There's a very rare chance that you will do a lead part especially if your band has a horn section. If such is the case, be on the sideline. You may want to practice "clanging" by listening to Kool and the Gang's "Jungle Boogie". Do not forget to use your wah pedals. Unlike rock or blues, wah pedals will keep your feet rocking when playing funk.
The Funky Scales
Most funk guitar players rely on the upper strings and not the higher pitched lower strings. While Blues players have their own scale, funk musicians usually play the Major Chord, 9th and 7th patterns. Even with their own chord progressions, funk guitarists often leave the notes "dead" all throughout the song.
Choose your weapon
As for effects, choose an overdrive, fuzz and wah. For guitars, a Telecaster or Stratocaster is an ideal choice. You can also customize a cheap guitar. The important thing to remember is to put a nice pickup near the bridge with a single coil for that instant "twang" needed to play funk.
You can never be wrong listening to the masters
To get into the groove, you need to learn from the masters of the music. James Brown's "Sex Machine" is a great primer in learning how to play rhythms without stepping someone else's musical toe. The Meter's "Just Kissed my Baby" has loads of reference about standard note patterns you need for funk music.
Discipline is a key when learning how to play funk. Just when you think you need to show off, then it's better to check yourself first. While funk songs may have a very "frantic" appeal, it is a very well-organized kind of music where everybody's roles are well-defined.
