Bootsy’s Back, Baby with “…Funkateer”

On a recent visit to the Queen City (Cincinnati, Ohio) home of bassist William Bootsy Collins and lovely wife Patricia, Bootsy laid down his philosophy for what he boldly referred to as “FUNK ENFORCEMENT”: a method of Pure Funk that would not only free the minds and asses of the masses, but would also enable lovers of the Funk (and music lovers in general) to “Funktion” on the same pulse. A universal groove, if you will. That universal groove has finally manifested itself through his 23rd album release, Album Of The Year-#1 Funkateer.

As with many of his album releases going back to the 1990s, Bootsy has reached out to a myriad of artists representing many genres. This new album continues that grand tradition, showcasing collaborations with rappers Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Kokane, Daz Dillinger from the Dogg Pound, his son Ouiwey, Fantaazma (Funkateer in training), and vocalist Myra Washington. An abridged examination of this 18-track grand Funk statement awaits those who attempt to reach out to the zone.

“ALBUM OF THE YEAR #1 FUNKATEER”

Rocking an updated version of the hellified groove he first laid down in 1976 (the birth year of Bootsy’s Rubber Band), Mr. Collins (under the code name “Bootdullivan”) and the equally hellified vocalist Myra Washington set the record straight on how to lay down the proper Funk vibe.

“THE JB’S TRIBUTE-PASTOR P”

No new Bootsy Collins album would be complete without a track that stretches Bootsy back to his not-so-humble roots. “The JB’s Tribute-Pastor P” recollects the super tight grooves that once emanated from James Brown’s backup band. Trombonist Fred Wesley participates in this spirited tribute.

“FISHNETS”

Kurupt & the Dogg Pound assist Bootsy by laying down some proper Rap flow over a fast-paced groove reminiscent of the glory days of the 1980s Funk band the Time. Fat gulps of Bootsy-Bass help this track boil over into the Elsewhere.

“CHICKEN AND FRIES”

A swinging tribute to some serious home cooking featuring rapper Soopafly, vocalist Myra Washington, and the newest Bootsy-blessed prodigy Fantaazma (who made her Funkalicious debut on the Bootsy Collins Hip Hop Lollipop from 2022).

“ALIEN FLYTRAP”

Stepping into the guest star space for this track is none other than Dave Stewart of Eurythmics on a track that gives off ambient-lite vibes that are playful and spacey at the same time.

“2NITE WE RISE”

Bootsy closes this sonic journey by literally laying down the Gospel truth. Accompanied by vocalist DREION, Bootsy tackles the issue of gun violence plaguing American communities. The solution: FUNK NOT FIGHT!

Bootsy Collins is making the kind of albums he should be making, as evidenced by the diverse array of musicians he has collaborated with over the years. Every album has been varied and complex, yet still fiercely Funky.

Back in the 1970s, Bootsy stood as one of the leading figures of Funk music. He is now a Funk elder statesman. Since 1997, he’s been involved in projects that showcased his esteemed position. A totally natural and stunning evolution. This new gift, from Bootsy to the world, is no exception.

-Tim Kinley

Fair use image from Album of the Year #1 Funkateer