Cissy Strut - A Deep Funk Groove With Driving Syncopation

Emerging from the vibrant music scene of New Orleans in the late 1960s, “Cissy Strut” by The Meters stands as a cornerstone of funk music. This instrumental masterpiece, released in 1969 on Josie Records, seamlessly blends infectious melodies with pulsating rhythms, creating a sonic experience that compels listeners to move their feet and groove along.
The origins of The Meters can be traced back to the late 1950s and early 1960s when its founding members – Art Neville (keyboards), Cyril Neville (percussion), George Porter Jr. (bass), and Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste (drums) – honed their skills in various musical ensembles around New Orleans. Their individual experiences playing a variety of genres, including rhythm & blues, soul, and jazz, provided them with the versatility and musical depth necessary to forge a unique sound that would define The Meters’ legacy.
Recognized for their exceptional musicianship and tight rhythmic interplay, The Meters quickly became sought-after session musicians, backing renowned artists such as Lee Dorsey and Professor Longhair. This valuable experience not only sharpened their technical skills but also exposed them to diverse musical influences, ultimately shaping the distinctive funk sound that they would soon unleash upon the world.
Breaking Boundaries: “Cissy Strut” as a Funk Anthem
“Cissy Strut,” named after Art Neville’s sister-in-law, Cissy, is an exemplary display of The Meters’ signature blend of infectious grooves and soulful melodies. The track opens with a hypnotic drumbeat laid down by Zigaboo Modeliste, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and relentless energy.
George Porter Jr.’s bass line enters the mix, locking in seamlessly with the drums to create a solid rhythmic foundation. Art Neville’s signature organ riffs weave in and out of the groove, adding layers of melodic texture and harmonic complexity. The interplay between the instruments is nothing short of masterful – each musician contributing their unique voice while remaining tightly interconnected.
Cyril Neville’s percussion adds subtle but crucial accents, further enriching the rhythmic tapestry and elevating the energy levels. The track builds gradually in intensity, with each instrument progressively adding layers of sonic texture, culminating in a climax that is both exhilarating and undeniably funky.
Beyond the Groove: Deconstructing “Cissy Strut”
To truly appreciate the genius of “Cissy Strut,” it’s essential to delve into the intricate details that make this track so compelling.
- Syncopation: A hallmark of funk music, syncopation involves placing rhythmic accents on beats that fall off the regular downbeat. Zigaboo Modeliste’s drumming is a masterclass in syncopation, creating a sense of unexpectedness and propulsive energy that drives the track forward.
- Call-and-Response: The interplay between instruments often follows a call-and-response pattern, with one instrument introducing a musical phrase (the “call”) and another responding with a complementary or contrasting phrase (“the response”).
This dynamic interaction keeps the listener engaged and creates a sense of musical dialogue.
- Groove: Perhaps the most defining characteristic of “Cissy Strut” is its infectious groove – a combination of rhythmic precision, melodic catchiness, and raw energy that compels listeners to move their bodies. The track’s ability to evoke such a visceral response speaks volumes about the musicianship of The Meters and their mastery of funk’s core principles.
The Legacy of “Cissy Strut” and Its Impact on Music
Since its release in 1969, “Cissy Strut” has become an enduring classic of the funk genre, influencing countless artists across generations. Its impact can be heard in the music of acts such as Parliament-Funkadelic, James Brown, and Sly & The Family Stone, who all incorporated elements of The Meters’ signature sound into their own work.
Beyond its influence on funk music, “Cissy Strut” has transcended genre boundaries, inspiring musicians from various disciplines – including rock, hip hop, and electronic music – to embrace its infectious grooves and raw energy.
The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the undeniable talent of The Meters.
Table: Key Elements of “Cissy Strut”
Musical Element | Description | Significance |
---|---|---|
Rhythm | Syncopated drumbeats, driving bass line | Creates a sense of urgency and propulsive energy |
Melody | Infectious organ riffs, interplay between instruments | Adds layers of sonic texture and harmonic complexity |
Groove | Tight rhythmic interplay, infectious feel | Compels listeners to move their bodies and groove along |
“Cissy Strut” remains not just a great funk song but also a cultural artifact, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ vibrant music scene in the late 1960s. It is a timeless testament to The Meters’ exceptional musicianship and their enduring contribution to the world of funk music.