From his time with the Impressions to his later days as a funk pioneer, Curtis Mayfield has touched souls around the world with his music. Known as one of the more politically conscious artists of his time, many of his tunes inspired social change and instilled hope in his listeners. Creating music fueled by hand percussion, wah-wah guitar, and horn sections, Mayfield composed some of the 70's greatest gems including "Pusherman" and "Move on Up," which many know as the sample in Kanye West's song "Touch the Sky." Perhaps Mayfield's greatest body of work was the 1972 soundtrack to "Superfly" which is recognized as one of the most influential albums in African-American history with lyrics that portray the struggles of black America at that time. Named as #69 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, the record has gone on to influence everyone from Herbie Hancock to Snoop Dogg. In 1991, tragedy occurred when the lighting equipment at an outdoor concert he was performing fell on him, paralyzing him from the neck down. Although Mayfield "kept on pushin'" for years after the incident, his 1999 death was linked to complications from the injury. While Mayfield's death was both sudden and tragic, his soul continues to shine to the present day. Much like John Lennon did in the 70's, Curtis Mayfield's greatest mission was to bring peace among the human race. His music and his ideals will forever influence all who listen.
The first video this week is of Curtis and his band performing "Keep on Keeping On" on the Old Grey Whistle Test. This tune of optimism is driven by Mayfield's familiar rhythm guitar playing and the funky congas to back him. Gotta love the suit Curtis is sporting too!
This next clip is proof that Mayfield's musical legacy continues to thrive. Members of Welcome To Florida are joined by fellow Boston musicians for a take of The Impressions classic "We're a Winner" molded together with "Move on Up." Their version pays homage to the recently inaugurated President Obama just as Curtis' version on 1971's Curtis/Live! gives a shout out to Martin Luther King.
Up next is guitar-god Jeff Beck being joined on stage by neo-soul queen Joss Stone for a soulful cut of Mayfield's "People Get Ready." Also in Beck's band is Australian bass virtuoso Tal Wilkenfeld, master drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, and keyboardist Jason Rebello. At such an intimate show, this take is soaked with soul and feeling.
This next video shows the Superfly himself performing his most recognizable hit. Despite promoting a bit of an exploitive film, "Superfly" has an undeniable groove and has gone down as one of the greatest tunes of the 70's. Not only was Mayfield influential and heroic in many ways, but he also shows that he's pretty damn cool.
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