Cissy Strut - A Euphoric Groove That Explodes With Funky Horns and Infectious Rhythms

“Cissy Strut”, an instrumental masterpiece by the legendary New Orleans funk band, The Meters, explodes onto the scene with a vibrant blend of infectious rhythms and funky horn riffs that will have you grooving uncontrollably. Released in 1970 as part of their self-titled debut album, this track is considered a cornerstone of the funk genre, showcasing the band’s signature sound: raw, energetic, and undeniably groovy.
The Meters formed in the early 1960s, initially as studio musicians for renowned New Orleans record label, Specialty Records. The core members were Art Neville (keyboards), his brother Cyril Neville (percussion and vocals), George Porter Jr. (bass guitar), and Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste (drums). Their individual talents, honed through countless hours of playing together in various local bands, converged to create a musical force unlike any other.
“Cissy Strut” exemplifies the band’s unique approach to funk music. The song opens with a driving bass line played by Porter Jr., instantly establishing the groove. Modeliste’s drums lay down a tight rhythmic foundation, punctuated by sharp snare hits and intricate cymbal work that propel the music forward. Neville’s organ melodies weave in and out of the mix, adding a layer of soulful warmth and complexity. The song is further enriched by Cyril Neville’s distinctive percussion work, which adds a rhythmic texture that complements the overall groove perfectly.
But what truly elevates “Cissy Strut” to legendary status are the iconic horn riffs. Though the song doesn’t feature horns in its core instrumentation, it’s crucial to note the influence of the New Orleans brass band tradition on The Meters’ music. They channeled this spirit through their individual instruments, crafting melodic lines that mimic the joyous and powerful sounds of trumpets, trombones, and saxophones.
This evocative sound creates a sense of anticipation and excitement throughout the song, culminating in a euphoric climax where all the elements come together in perfect harmony. The infectious groove compels listeners to move, while the funky horn riffs inject an extra dose of energy into the mix.
A Deeper Dive into the Musical Elements:
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Rhythm & Groove: The Meters were masters of creating tight and infectious grooves that underpinned their music. “Cissy Strut” is a prime example of this mastery. Modeliste’s drumming provides a steady pulse, while Porter Jr.’s bass line walks along it with an irresistible swing.
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Melodic Hooks: Art Neville’s organ melodies are both catchy and soulful. They weave in and out of the rhythm section, adding layers of complexity and emotion to the song.
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Instrumental Texture: Though there aren’t traditional horns present, The Meters use their instruments to emulate a horn section’s sound. This innovative approach contributes significantly to the track’s distinctive character.
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Dynamic Structure: “Cissy Strut” builds in intensity throughout its duration. The song starts with a driving groove and gradually adds layers of instrumentation, culminating in a climactic finish that leaves listeners wanting more.
Beyond “Cissy Strut”:
The Meters continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1970s, including “Rejuvenation,” “Searching for the New Orleans Sound,” and “Fire on the Bayou.” Their music became synonymous with the funky sounds of New Orleans, influencing generations of musicians.
Their influence extends far beyond the realm of funk. The Meters’ tight grooves and infectious melodies have been sampled by countless hip-hop artists, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and A Tribe Called Quest. Their music has also appeared in films and television shows, further cementing their status as musical icons.
“Cissy Strut” - More Than Just a Song:
“Cissy Strut” is not merely a song; it’s a cultural artifact that captures the essence of New Orleans funk. Its infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and inventive use of instrumentation have made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight listeners across generations.