The Funkees
‘Dancing Time: The Best of Eastern Nigeria’s Afro Rock Exponents 1973-77‘ (Soundway, 2012)
Soundway continues its exploration of 1970s Nigerian music with a compilation of material by one of the leading Afro-rock bands of the time. The Funkees was a popular band in Nigerian clubs during the early 1970s.
Dancing Time: The Best of Eastern Nigeria’s Afro Rock Exponents 1973-77 contains 18 songs handpicked by Soundway’s director, Miles Cleret. The music is a mix of funk and Afro-rock selected from The Funkees’ 45s (singles) and two LPs.
The Funkees was the top east Nigerian band in the early 1970s. The hard working group was formed by guitarist Harry Mosco Agada. Its success in Nigeria attracted the attention of British promoters. Encouraged by this interest, the band moved to London where they rapidly became a well-liked act on the live circuit.
In the UK, The Funkees recorded two essential albums before finally breaking up in 1977. Dancing Time: The Best of Eastern Nigeria’s Afro Rock Exponents 1973-77 includes all of their Nigerian 45s together with the best of their British album.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.