Funk / SOul

Start here to grow your Funk and Soul collection with some undisputed masterpieces. From early Soul ballads and Jazz-Funk to Neo-Soul and Psychedelic Funk-Rock there is something here for every listener to explore and add to their collection.

Funk and Soul music exploded in the 1960s. The music was a vital form of expression, both personal and political, that reflected the struggles and triumphs of the era while profoundly influencing the direction of popular music.

In the 1970s, the sounds of funk and soul expanded, blending with more sounds from around the world and experimenting with modern instrumentation. While there was an increased focus on the dance floor, the music continued to be a soundtrack for social change, promoting messages of empowerment and self-expression.

In the 1980s, Funk and Soul widely embraced synthesizers, drum machines, and a more polished production style, resulting in a sound that was often slick and dance-oriented. The music continued to address social issues, but also expanded its focus on the dance floor and commercial charts, ushering in the sounds of new jack swing and contemporary R&B. 

In the 1990s, Funk and Soul artists looked to the music’s past the craft its future by blending classic grooves with modern production. Neo-Soul, and Funk-Pop provided an alternative to mainstream pop, emphasizing organic instrumentation and socially conscious lyrics. 

In the 2000s, Neo-Soul continued to thrive, emphasizing live instrumentation and socially conscious themes, while other artists explored fusions with hip-hop and electronic beats. This era saw a renewed appreciation for classic funk and soul artists, with their music sampled and reinterpreted, ensuring their continued relevance and influence on contemporary music.

Funk and Soul continue to be powerful forces in music as artists continue embracing vintage sounds with the amazing tools of modern production, blending live instrumentation with electronic elements and the influence of diverse sounds from around the world. The music continues to be a place for artists to explore themes of identity, social commentary, and personal expression, drawing on the rich history of Black music. 

Shop our Discogs Selects collection of Funk and Soul must-haves for sale on vinyl. From legendary icons like James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Prince to modern masters like Khruangbin, Erykah Badu, and D’Angelo, this collection aims to guide exploration for those just starting their collector’s journey as well as those already immersed in the music. Shop Discogs today to find the best Funk and Soul records to add to your collection.