Synth Funk

Synth funk is a style of Funk which emphasizes synthesizers, replacing earlier funk's horn melodies to create a stripped-down, futuristic sound, often incorporating drum machines. At its most extreme, synth funk may feature only Electronic instrumentation and vocals, but a degree of live instrumentation like electric and bass guitar is not uncommon. The style is also sometimes known as "naked funk", due to its more barebones instrumental palette as well as the risque lyricism and aesthetics common to many of its artists. Synthesizers became increasingly available in the late 1970s and early 1980s, leading to their incorporation into the post-Disco landscape of funk. Synth funk was popularised by a new generation of artists including The Gap Band, Zapp, and Prince (whose Minneapolis Sound is closely linked with the style). The rise of synth funk also influenced established funk acts like Cameo and Rick James, who saw renewed success with their evolution towards the sound. Synth funk was very influential on and had major crossover with early Contemporary R&B in the 1980s, and has influenced post-millennium electronic styles like Funktronica, Skweee, and Purple Sound. AKA: Naked Funk