Tuesday Tribute: Sly and the Family Stone

In honor of being added to this year's Coachella lineup (a tasty looking lineup I might add, check it out here), I figured I'd explore the collection of one of America's all time finest funk bands. The band formed in 1966 when Sly's band Sly & The Stoners joined forces with Jerry Stone's band Jerry & the Stone Souls. The band's messages of freedom, peace, and equality in such tunes as "Everyday People" and "Stand!" were backed up by the multi-racial lineup of the band itself. Sly was a songwriting powerhouse, but some other notable musicians in the band included brother Freddie whose notable funk licks would inspire players for years to come, drummer Gregg Errico whose powerful style would get him spots with the Jerry Garcia Band and David Bowie, and bassist Larry Graham who's seen as a bass pioneer and the inventor of the "slap" style of playing. The band was huge on radio waves in the late 60's and played a set at Woodstock that many people claim to be the best set of music they have ever seen, but despite a myriad of hits, the band went out as quick as they came in. Sly Stone has only hit the news in recent years for drug and legal problems and a knack for missing gigs; an unfortunate situation considering how many overlook just how important this band was and how many of their tunes have proved to be timeless. Sly and the Family Stone have a collection of hits far bigger than they are given credit for, so today we will explore a bit of their catalog.

First up is one of the most high energy performances I've ever seen. Woodstock got quite the second wind when Sly and the band pulled out "I Want To Take You Higher" in the wee hours of the morning. Between the call and response and the synchronized dances, this is one unforgettable gig.



"Thank You Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again" is a funk classic. Larry Graham is at his best when it comes to the bassline. Sly looks like he's having a good time too.



One of the all-time feel good tracks is "Dance to the Music." I love how every band member is able to take their turn sharing in the groove. If you're not able to get down to this song, then Cynthia is right, "all the squares go home!"



Sly's overall message was captured no more effectively than in the band's steeple hit "Everyday People." Civil and social rights were at the forefront of what this band was all about and what they aimed to convey. This is one song that will never grow old.