Funky Four Plus One, a groundbreaking hip-hop group from the early 1980s, is best known for their iconic track “That’s The Joint.” Released in 1980, this song is a seminal piece in the history of hip-hop, representing a critical moment in the genre’s evolution. This article delves into the origins of Funky Four Plus One, the creation and impact of “That’s The Joint,” and the song’s enduring legacy in the landscape of hip-hop music.
The Formation of Funky Four Plus One
The Funky Four Plus One was a pioneering hip-hop group formed in the Bronx, New York, during the early days of the genre. The group initially consisted of four core members: Kool Keith, The Jazzy 5 MCs (Sharon, Darnell, and Darryl), and a fifth member, who was later replaced by a fifth MC, known as “The Plus One,” Lisa Lee.
The original lineup included:
- Kool Keith: Known for his distinctive vocal style and lyrical prowess.
- Sharon: A talented MC with a unique voice and delivery.
- Darnell: Contributed to the group’s dynamic with his energetic performance.
- Darryl: Known for his strong stage presence and lyrical skills.
- Lisa Lee: The group’s “Plus One,” who brought a fresh perspective and dynamic to the group’s sound.
The group’s formation was a product of the vibrant hip-hop scene that was burgeoning in the Bronx. They quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and innovative approach to rap music.
The Creation of “That’s The Joint”
“That’s The Joint” was released in 1980 on the Enjoy Records label, a period during which hip-hop was still in its nascent stages. The song was produced by the legendary producer, Sylvia Robinson, who was also known for her work with Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five on “The Message.”
The production of “That’s The Joint” is notable for its innovative use of sampling and beat-making techniques. The song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm and funky bassline, characteristic of the early hip-hop sound. The track’s instrumental was built around a looped sample from the song “Get Up Stand Up” by the Blackbyrds, a jazz-funk group known for their influential sound.
The lyrics of “That’s The Joint” are delivered with a confident and charismatic style, showcasing the group’s lyrical agility and stage presence. The song’s chorus, with its infectious hook, became an anthem for hip-hop fans and a staple in the genre’s early catalog.
Lyrics and Themes of “That’s The Joint”
The lyrics of “That’s The Joint” are a celebration of the burgeoning hip-hop culture and its vibrant, energetic spirit. The song’s verses are filled with playful, boastful rhymes and a sense of fun that reflects the early days of hip-hop, when the genre was primarily focused on party anthems and self-expression.
The chorus of the song, which repeats the line “That’s the joint, that’s the joint,” serves as a catchy and memorable refrain that captures the essence of the track. The lyrics are characterized by their rhythmic flow and clever wordplay, showcasing the group’s lyrical talent and ability to connect with their audience.
The song also features references to the hip-hop scene of the time, including shout-outs to other prominent artists and elements of the culture. These references serve to contextualize the track within the broader hip-hop movement and highlight its significance as a landmark in the genre’s development.
The Impact of “That’s The Joint”
Upon its release, “That’s The Joint” quickly gained popularity within the hip-hop community. The song’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics made it a hit on the streets and in clubs, helping to establish Funky Four Plus One as a major player in the early hip-hop scene.
The impact of “That’s The Joint” extended beyond its immediate success. The track played a crucial role in shaping the direction of hip-hop music and influencing subsequent artists. Its innovative use of sampling and production techniques set a precedent for future hip-hop tracks, and its celebration of the genre’s culture and style helped to solidify hip-hop as a distinct and influential musical genre.
The song’s success also contributed to the growing visibility of hip-hop in the mainstream music industry. As one of the early hip-hop tracks to achieve widespread recognition, “That’s The Joint” helped pave the way for other artists and groups to gain exposure and establish themselves within the industry.
The Song’s Influence on Hip-Hop Culture
The influence of “That’s The Joint” can be seen in the work of numerous artists who followed in Funky Four Plus One’s footsteps. The song’s emphasis on rhythm, groove, and lyrical skill set a standard for future hip-hop tracks and contributed to the development of the genre’s musical style.
In particular, the use of sampling and beat-making techniques showcased in “That’s The Joint” became a defining feature of hip-hop production. The song’s innovative approach to creating and manipulating beats paved the way for future producers and artists to explore new possibilities in hip-hop music.
The celebratory and energetic nature of “That’s The Joint” also influenced the way that hip-hop artists approached their music and performances. The track’s emphasis on having fun and engaging with the audience helped to shape the performance style of many hip-hop artists and contributed to the genre’s emphasis on live shows and audience interaction.
Funky Four Plus One’s Place in Hip-Hop History
Funky Four Plus One holds a significant place in the history of hip-hop, both for their contributions to the genre and for their role in its early development. The group was part of a pioneering wave of hip-hop artists who helped to establish the genre’s foundations and shape its direction.
In addition to their work on “That’s The Joint,” Funky Four Plus One also contributed to other notable tracks and performances that helped to solidify their place in hip-hop history. Their innovative approach to music and their ability to connect with audiences made them an important part of the early hip-hop scene.
The group’s influence extends beyond their own music, as their contributions helped to pave the way for future artists and shape the development of hip-hop as a genre. Their work has been recognized and celebrated by subsequent generations of hip-hop artists and fans, ensuring that their legacy remains an important part of the genre’s history.
The Legacy of “That’s The Joint”
The legacy of “That’s The Joint” is a testament to the song’s impact and significance within the hip-hop genre. The track remains a classic example of early hip-hop music and continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
The song’s influence can be seen in the work of numerous artists who have drawn inspiration from its innovative production and lyrical style. Its impact on the development of hip-hop production techniques and its role in shaping the genre’s musical direction make it a crucial part of hip-hop history.
In addition to its musical impact, “That’s The Joint” also holds cultural significance as a representation of the early days of hip-hop. The song captures the energy and spirit of the genre’s formative years and serves as a reminder of the vibrant and dynamic nature of hip-hop culture.
Conclusion
Funky Four Plus One’s “That’s The Joint” is a landmark track in the history of hip-hop, representing a critical moment in the genre’s evolution. The song’s innovative production, catchy lyrics, and energetic performance helped to establish Funky Four Plus One as a pioneering force in hip-hop and set a standard for future artists.
The impact of “That’s The Joint” extends far beyond its immediate success, influencing the development of hip-hop music and culture and contributing to the genre’s growth and evolution. The song’s legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and artists, ensuring that its significance within the hip-hop genre remains an enduring part of its history.
As one of the early hip-hop tracks to achieve widespread recognition, “That’s The Joint” played a crucial role in shaping the direction of the genre and helping to establish hip-hop as a distinct and influential musical style. The song’s contributions to hip-hop production, performance, and culture make it a vital part of the genre’s history and a testament to the creativity and innovation of Funky Four Plus One.
