A Drug-Fueled "Hard Day's Night" for the Wised-Up 90s

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews funk legend George Clinton's new CD "T.A.P.O.A.F.O.M."

The master of funk, George Clinton He began his musical career as a teenager when he formed The Parliaments. But in the early 70s, Clinton put together a second group, "Funkadelic," that became enormously influential on the pop music scene. Their 1970 album, "Osmium," set the tone for Clinton's wickedly eclectic style; songs ranged from metaphysical gospel to country and acid rock. Clinton blended rap with a heavy rhythm line that defined the funk sound and culture.

That's the title of an episode of Steve Rowland's documentary series "The Music Makers" featuring funk innovator George Clinton. We play this excerpt.

Maceo Parker is best known as the saxophonist who played with James Brown. His on again off again association with Brown began in 1964. Parker's latest album is "Roots Revisited;" It's soft jazz and funky soul. (On the Verve label). (REBROADCAST. Originally aired 10/2/90).

Musician Bootsy Collins got his start with James Brown, where he "defined the finger-popping funk bass style" (Rolling Stone). He went on to work with George Clinton as part of the Parliment-Funkadelic tribe, before forming Bootsy's Rubber Band. On stage, he created alter egos, including Bootzilla, Boot-Tron, and King of the Geepies. He's put out more than 30 albums. Currently he's on tour with George Clinton in Europe and will return to the U.S. for more touring. (REBROADCAST from 10/10/94)