"Funk Gets Stronger (Killer Millimeter Longer Version)" by Funkadelic, featuring Sly Stone

Funk masters George Clinton and Sly Stone

Legendary funk-soul brothers from another mother Sly Stone and George Clinton combine their groove forces for this dope Funkadelic joint. This funky strut of a groove is peppered with infectious horn lines, dirty guitar licks and stellar keyboard and synth parts.

Sly sings most of his verses in a bluesy whisper but occasionally lets loose with a few powerhouse wails to remind listeners that he was still in possession of one of the most soulful voices in funk music. And of course George Clinton is always down for a good funk party and contributes some clever lyrics and catchphrases as well as his signature off-center humor.

In addition to vocals, the multitalented Sly also played drums, keyboards, rhythm guitar and synthesizers on the track. Other players included Eddie “Maggot Brain” Hazel on lead guitar and Sly & the Family Stone alums Pat Rizzo (saxophone) and Cynthia Robinson (trumpet). Sly and Clinton co-wrote and produced the track.

This underrated funk cut didn’t get near enough play back when it was released on Funkadelic’s The Electric Spanking of War Babies album in 1981. In addition to “Funk Gets Stronger,” other great cuts from the album include the percolating “Electro-Cuties” and the lewd, crude and very funky “Icka Prick.”

Sly has recorded and toured with P-Funk off and on over the years and is close friends with George Clinton. Other P-Funk tracks that Sly has contributed his versatile talents include “Hydraulic Pump,” “Catch A Keeper” (both P-Funk All Star cuts), “The Naz” (Funkadelic) and “In Da Kar” by Funkadelic & Soul Clap.  Hopefully, there are more funky collabs to come with Sly, George and P-Funk.