By Erica Wilkins Hues of pink and red paint the town, Cupid prepares his bow and arrow and the lovebugs get ready to bite. That’s right, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and if you are like me then this overly lovey holiday may put you in a bit of a funk. A nod to that old mixtape your uncle was playing non-stop with the worn-out recordings of the same 10 songs. Little did you know, those songs were master classes in funk you didn’t even realize you were getting. 1. Get Up (I Feel Like Being A) Sex Machine - James Brown No one knows more about funk than James Brown. This song is sure to make you get up and shake what ya mama gave ya. 2. Brick House - Commodores A great song to sing in the shower when you’re feeling mighty-mighty. 3. Move On Up - Curtis Mayfield What more could you want than a fast-paced and upbeat track that encourages you to pursue your dreams. How about a fast-paced and upbeat track that encourages you to pursue your dreams AND heavily features bongos? That’s exactly what Curtis Mayfield gives you in this song. The quick drum beats and horns that dance around the beat make this song endlessly fun. 4. It’s Your Thing - The Isley Brothers The Isley Brothers bring you this brand of laissez-faire funk that lets you let your hair down and do things your way. This song is guaranteed to make your walk through campus feel like a cool movie shot from the '70s. 5. Shining Star - Earth, Wind, & Fire The horns and charismatic vocals give you visions of a '70s disco. Also, who doesn’t need a song to tell them how special they are from time to time. 6. Sir Duke - Stevie Wonder I don’t know how anyone could hear the horns at the beginning of this song and not get excited. With the the upbeat melody, the playful vocals and positive lyrics, Stevie Wonder practically shoves happiness through your speakers with this song. 7. Got To Give It Up - Marvin Gaye King of baby-making music, Marvin Gaye, created another falsetto-focused jam. This is a song that instantly transports your mind to a Soul Train dance-line. So, let the groove grab you and keep on dancing. 8. Family Affair - Sly & The Family Stone Sly & The Family Stone is the band that serves as the cornerstone of any good cookout, reunion or block party playlist. ‘Family Affair’ has a rich and bouncy sound that’s nearly aquatic while still bringing the funk (of course). 9. Who’s That Lady - The Isley Brothers A smooth and laid back moment from the Isley Brothers. A classic and cool song that reminds you of what it’s like to feel love at first sight. 10. Groove Me - King Floyd A strolling bass-line and jumping horns make this song a funk class. Any song your uncle could yell out “Good God!” belongs on the mixtape.
