Funk In The First Degree: Recent Episodes
John Ellison, III
On this episode from the Funk In The Funk Degree archives, John and Roundtabler alumnus Dr G. (George Darden) remember and discuss the impact of James Brown on Funk and Pop music in this revealing episode.
Sly Stone, the man who fused the musical genres of Soul, Rock and Funk was born on this day, March 15th 1943. John chronicles his life and music on this episode.
Original roundtabler Mike Hall, better known as DJ Mike Hall passed away recently. Here is a repost of a past episode in which he participated. Rest in Power Mr. Hall.
After almost a five year absence, the Roundtable is back for another exciting episode covering the year 2022.
After almost a six year absence, Bob Davis returns to the Funkisphere for this riveting episode
The Funkisphere remembers Blues Guitarist, Funk legend, Songwriter, Johnny Guitar Watson on this memorable episode
John reposts this classic episode from Christmas 2016 of Funky Christmas Jams for your Funkin’ pleasure!
We lost the Iconic and influential Drummer, (Hamilton) Bohannon today. His four on the floor drumming style always got people out on the dance floor. Here’s our conversation with him as he was enjoying a renaissance of popularity and discovery … Continue reading →
Hey Funky one’s we’re still here! Here’s some good funky stuff for the Soundtrack to your Funky Christmas, and one of our favorite episodes. Enjoy.
John talks about the final entrant to the Mount Rushmore of Funk, George Clinton, and why he deserves to be there in this episode.
This is a repost of an episode deep in the archives, but wasn’t posted on the actual day of his birth. However we are reposting this episode on the day of his birth for historical accuracy.
John brings a new feature to the show, “Uncovered Funk” where he talks about and breaks down B-sides, Alternate Mixes and Deep Cuts from the Funkisphere.
Bob Davis of soul-patrol.com joins John in the Funkisphere to wrap up their conversation of all things funky for the Summer of 2017.
Bob Davis of www.soul-patrol.com checks in with John to also talk about all things funky for the summer of 2017.
John and the fellas wrap up their conversation on all things Funky that occurred during the Summer of 2017.
John and the funky fellas talk about all things funky that have transpired so far in the year 2017.
John talks about the great history and legacy of the genre that emanates from the Crescent City and the artists that put it on the map.
John is in a celebratory mood as Funk In The First Degree hits the 100th episode! He talks about the shows inception and plans for the show moving forward.
Bob Davis of www.soul-patrol.com and John wrap up the year 2016 in Part 2 of this funk-filled episode.
Bob Davis of www.soul-patrol.com rejoins John in the Funkisphere to talk about all things funky in Part One of the 2016 years end wrap up..
On this episode, John talks about and shares his thoughts over a great new book about Curtis Mayfield written by his Son, Todd.
John talks about the recent issue of previously unreleased Betty Davis recordings during her brief stint with CBS from the late 60’s and commentary about the late Walter “Junie” Morrison in this enlightening episode. .
John talks about Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Sylvester Stewart, aka Sly Stone leader and front man of the groundbreaking Funk/Rock/Soul ensemble, “Sly and The Family Stone” and the reasons why he’s included on the Mountain in … Continue reading →
John and the fellas Keith, Bo, and the returning Lindsey Robinson wrap up 2016 in the Funkisphere in this year end episode.
John talks to Bob Davis of www.soul-patrol.com from the Summer of 2016 They discuss all that transpired in the Funkisphere at that time. *Muhammad Ali’s last two professional fights were losses to Larry Holmes and Trevor Berbick.
John talks with Keith and Bo as they remember the Recording Artist and performer, Prince in this special episode. Charted singles (discussed on this episode): Soft And Wet (1978) R+B #12; Pop# 92 Why You Wanna Treat… (1980) R+B #13 … Continue reading →
The Funkisphere is still morning the loss of his Purple Badness, Prince, who passed away this past Spring of 2016. John shares some of his insights about the Icon and his legacy.
On this episode John talks about Maurice White, the founder and guiding force behind the supergroup,”Earth Wind and Fire” who passed away recently.
On this episode, John shares his thoughts on Rick James’s Memoir, “Confessions Of A Super Freak”and remembers the Icon, Clarence “Blowfly” Reid who recently passed away.
John talks about Songwriter, Producer, and Music Legend, Allen Toussaint, who passed away recently in this revealing episode.
Keith, Bo, and new Round tabler, Lindsey Robinson join John discussing all things Funky for 2015.
John reviews this classic recording of Sly and the Family Stone performances at Bill Grahm’s legendary venue in New York City back in 1968. Name Your Link
Soul Patrol’s Bob Davis returns to the Funkisphere to lend his insight, and analysis to all things Funky.
John talks to Cartoonist, Illustrator, Musician, Songwriter, Stozo The Clown.Stozo and John talk about his work with George Clinton, The Horny Horns, Fuzzy Haskins, and other Funk related projects.
John welcomes back Keith, and new roundtabler, Wilmon “Bo” Fridie as they discuss the latest happenings in the Funkisphere.
On this episode John talks about the latest entry to the Mt. Rushmore of Funk, The Genius, Ray Charles and his accomplishments. John also shares obits about Ben E King, B.B. King and a note about the unexpected passing of Bassist, … Continue reading →
On this episode, John reveals the first inductee on the Mt Rushmore of Funk. He also has some Sly and The Family Stone news and comments on the ruling over the recent hit song, “Blurred Lines.”
John talks to Drummer “extraordinaire” Manuel The “Deacon” Kellough. He shares with us his amazing journey from playing with Billy Preston, Ray Charles, Graham Central Station to his current musical projects. MannyKellough.com
John wraps up his conversation with Neftaili Santiago, former Drummer for the group Mandrill. Neftaili has more stories about the band, and discusses his current projects. Be sure to check out Neftaili Santiago on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/neftali.santiago3
On part one of this episode, John talks to Drummer Neftali Santiago, formally of the group, Mandrill. We learn about Neftali’s roots in music, and how he joined the band.
On this episode, John invites you to post your “Mt Rushmore of Funk” along with his thoughts on a recent tribute to Stevie Wonder, and Funk news on George Clinton.
On this episode, John takes a look back at the word “Funk” and how the medium of Radio finally accepted it and how it eventually joined the lexicon of society and culture.
John and the Funky Fellas, Dr.G, Keith Allen, and DJ Mike Hall, wrap up all that was funky in the year 2014. John also reports on Sly Stone winning his multi-million dollar law suit from his former Manager and his … Continue reading →
John and the fellas, Dr.G, Keith Allen, and DJ Mike Hall look back at some of the Funky events of 2014. They also review the group Cameo’s recent concert performance here in the DMV and much more.
The song “Uptown Funk” featuring Bruno Mars has found it’s way to the Funkisphere. John shares his thoughts and poses a question to you for your feedback in this intriguing episode.
The Artist, Prince, is back on Warner Brothers and has released his latest effort, “Art Official Age.” John shares his thoughts on Prince’s latest offering in this illuminating episode.
Bob Davis of www.soul-patrol.com joins John in the FIFD Universe for a year end review of newsworthy events of this past year, 2014.
John shares his thoughts on “Get On Up” the James Brown bio-pic that came out earlier this year. He’s (John) always fascinated by the recurring interest in JB but, is more intrigued by the treatment of his music by his … Continue reading →
Funk dudes John and Dr. G see Funk Icon George Clinton at a private invitation only event in DC as GC promotes is Memoir, “Brothas Be, Yo Like George, Ain’t That Funkin’ Kinda Hard on You?” Clinton is interviewed on … Continue reading →
John wraps up a fascinating conversation with Funk Diva/Icon Patryce “Choclet” Banks to conclude this memorable episode! Everybody is a Star with Patryce Choclet Banks Official Website
In the first part of a great conversation, John talks to the Icon/Diva, Patryce Choclet Banks. They talk about her beginnings, and her early life’s journey, and entertaining stories as she entered the “Funkisphere” ! Patyrce “Choclet” Banks Official Website
John uncovers a fascinating video of Sly and the Family Stone in the studio listening to the classic track, “Family Affair.” John shares his thoughts, and why you should see and enjoy this video.
Soul/Funk legend Bobby Womack passed away recently John’s is looking for your feedback to include shout outs and your stories as we pay homage to this great music icon in an upcoming episode.
John and Funk-dudes Keith, Dr. G, and the returning DJ Mike Hall are back together for another funky, entertaining, and enlightening episode.
John is back (finally) with a new episode! He returns to the Funky DVD Corner and shares the real reason that may have brought Prince and Warner Brothers back together.
John returns to the funky book corner to share with you what he’s been reading lately and maybe you should too.
John provides an audio review of the recent Bohannon concert at the historic Howard Theater in Washington, DC.
John celebrates the birthday of one of his musical heroes, Sly Stone, in the Funkisphere!
John celebrates a milestone on the show with this being the 50th episode. John talks to the Icon, Drummer and Vocalist Bohannon about his career,They also discuss his future plans and his upcoming performances at BB Kings in New York, … Continue reading →
In this episode, John explains what a Producer of Funky Music does and details the setlement between the Estate of the late Marvin Gaye and Robin Thicke over Mr. Thicke’s mega hit,” Blurred Lines.”
The Funk Icons — Leo Nocentelli, Bernie Worrell and Fred Wesley — a trio of unsung legends whose playing was a driving force behind three of the most influential bands in the Funkasphere — brought in the New Year with … Continue reading →
John talks to talented trombonist and multi-instrumentalist Greg Boyer. They talk about Greg’s career and current projects. www.gregboyer.net
John and Bob Davis of Soul-Patrol.com wrap up their conversation on notable 2013 events.
In part one of a two-part conversation, John and Bob Davis talk about and comment on the events that transpired on www.Soul-Patrol.com and in the Funkisphere for 2013.
John and Funk-dudes Dr.G and Keith Allen talk about the highlights and other events that transpired in the Funkisphere for 2013.
John runs down his last Funky Five CD’s he’s been listening to and a classic DVD he’s checked out recently.
John wraps up his conversation with Rock and Roll Hall Of Inductee Jerome “Big Foot” Brailey as he shares great stories about his career, more tales about Parliament-Funkadelic, and his new music.
John talks to Rock and Roll Hall Of Inductee Jerome “Big Foot” Brailey about his career, his tenure with Parliament-Funkadelic, and his new music.
John talks to ‘go-to’ keyboardist Rod Lumpkin, who has played with Hamiliton Bohannon and Michael Henderson. Mr. Lumpkin talks about his career, his faith and working with Bohannon in the studio and Bohannon’s upcoming performances at BB King’s in … Continue reading →
Bootsy Collins was back in the DMV for a Halloween Concert at the Strathmore in Rockville, MD. Funk dudes Keith Allen and Dr. G were there to check it out.. Dr G shares with us some very special conversations with … Continue reading →
John shares his mixed feelings about the recent postponement of the Rufus w/ Sly Stone show at the Howard Theatre until next year. He also shares some clips ,and, his last “Funky Five.”
Bob Davis of Soul-Patrol.com is back in the FIFD Universe to wrap up another thought provoking conversation with John in the Funkisphere!
John and Funk dudes Dr. G wrap up their their reviews and thoughts of Maze/Isley Brothers/KEM concert here in DC recently. Keith shares his review of the Plastic Cup Boyz comedy review and more..
When John heard through the Funkisphere about this release, he couldn’t wait to get it. He shares his thoughts with you on why you should have this release in your collection.
John and funk-dudes Dr. G and Keith Allen catch up on what’s been happening since they last convened in the Funkisphere.
John’s back and the site is back up after the FIFD site was “hacked” recently. Earlier episodes are being reposted over time. John teases what to come in upcoming episodes and where to go should the FIFD site go down again temporarily.
Bob Davis of www.Soul-Patrol.com and John catch up and discuss what’s been happening in their respective worlds from Bob’s last appearance. ‘Like’ us on FACEBOOK! Facebook.com/FunkInTheFirstDegree
John talks to Keyboardist/Producer Jason Miles and his latest project Global Noise as they re-visit and interpret the music of Sly and The Family Stone. Keep up with Jason Miles at www.JasonMilesMusic.com
John shares his delight in seeing Billy Cox, the last surviving member of the Jimi Hendrix Bands, your listener feedback, and a upcoming feature coming to the site… For more info on Billy Cox, visit his website www.BassistBillyCox.com ‘Like’ us … Continue reading →
In this episode John runs down his last Funky Five, his excitement that Billy Cox the last Bassist of Jimi Hendrix’s Band Of Gypsy’s/Experience fame comes to DC to perform live, and news of a new Sly & The Family Stone compilation that … Continue reading →
In part two of a two part episode, John and Dr. G talk about and remember the legacy of the Icon, James Brown as they celebrate what would be his 80th birthday They share stories of their encounter with Mr. … Continue reading →
In part one of a two part episode, John and Dr. G talk about and remember the legacy of the Icon, James Brown as they celebrate what would be his 80th birthday They speak of Mr Brown’s importance and influence as an Artist … Continue reading →
John shares with you the latest Funky Flicks he’s been watching, plus your listener feedback.
John reviews the double CD from Shuggie Otis, the reclusive genius who is touring to promote his newest, but previously unreleased music and also remembers Cordell :”Boogie” Mosson legendary Bassist/Guitarist for P-Funk who recently passed away. Here’s a link to … Continue reading →