Curtis Mayfield (1942-1999) was an American singer-songwriter and musician, known for his soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics that addressed the issues of racism, poverty, and injustice. Mayfield began his career in the late 1950s as a member of the group The Impressions, with whom he wrote and recorded numerous hits, including “People Get Ready” and “Keep on Pushing”. In the 1970s, he launched a successful solo career, with albums like “Superfly” and “Curtis” becoming classics of the era.
Mayfield’s music was marked by its uplifting and positive message, as well as its sophisticated blend of soul, funk, and gospel influences. He was also a skilled guitarist, known for his intricate fingerpicking style and use of effects like wah-wah pedals. His music influenced generations of artists, including Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Lenny Kravitz.
Mayfield was also a trailblazer in terms of political and social activism, using his platform to advocate for civil rights and raise awareness of issues affecting African Americans. He wrote songs like “We’re a Winner” and “Choice of Colors” that spoke to the struggles and triumphs of the black community, and was a vocal supporter of the Black Panther Party and other movements for social justice.
Despite being paralyzed from the neck down in a 1990 accident, Mayfield continued to make music and inspire audiences until his death in 1999. His legacy as a pioneering artist and activist continues to be celebrated and honored today.
1. Do Do Wap Is Strong In Here
“Do Do Wap Is Strong In Here” is a song by American singer-songwriter Curtis Mayfield, featured on his album “Heartbeat”. The song is a funky, up-tempo number that celebrates the power of music to bring people together and lift their spirits. The song’s infectious chorus features a call-and-response vocal arrangement that is both catchy and uplifting. Mayfield’s soulful vocals are supported by a tight, groovy instrumental arrangement that features funky basslines and energetic horns. “Do Do Wap Is Strong In Here” is a testament to Mayfield’s skill as a songwriter and performer, and remains a beloved classic of the funk and soul genres.
2. Future Shock
“Future Shock” is a song written and recorded by Curtis Mayfield in 1973. The song’s lyrics express Mayfield’s concerns about the rapidly changing social and political landscape of the 1970s, and the impact of technology on society. The song’s funky rhythm, innovative use of synthesizers, and Mayfield’s powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and apprehension. “Future Shock” has been praised for its forward-thinking message and prophetic warnings about the dangers of unchecked technological progress. The song remains a powerful commentary on the challenges and opportunities of the modern age, and a testament to Mayfield’s enduring legacy as a social and political activist.
3. Get Down
“Get Down” is a song by American funk and soul musician, James Brown, released in 1971 as part of his album “Revolution of the Mind”. The song features Brown’s signature style of funky rhythms, horn blasts, and his own passionate vocals, urging the listener to get down and boogie. With its driving beat and infectious groove, “Get Down” quickly became a dancefloor classic, and has been sampled and covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s message of letting go and surrendering to the music remains a timeless call to let loose and have fun on the dancefloor.
4. Right on for the Darkness
“Right on for the Darkness” is a song by American funk and soul musician Curtis Mayfield, featured on his album “Back to the World”. The song is a funky, up-tempo number that explores the struggles and injustices faced by African Americans during the 1970s. Mayfield’s soulful vocals are accompanied by a tight, groovy instrumental arrangement that features funky guitar riffs and a powerful horn section. The song’s lyrics are both politically charged and uplifting, encouraging listeners to stay strong and fight for their rights. “Right on for the Darkness” remains a powerful testament to Mayfield’s musical and social vision, and is considered a classic of the funk and soul genres.
5. She Don’t Let Nobody (But Me)
“She Don’t Let Nobody (But Me)” is a classic R&B song written and recorded by the late American musician and songwriter Curtis Mayfield in 1975. The song’s lyrics describe a romantic relationship in which the narrator asserts his exclusive claim to his lover’s affections. The song features Mayfield’s signature falsetto vocals, a groovy bassline, and catchy brass hooks, creating a lively and danceable vibe. “She Don’t Let Nobody (But Me)” has become a favorite among fans of Mayfield’s music, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a true R&B classic.
6. Keep on Keepin’ On
“Keep on Keepin’ On” is a song by American R&B group, The Impressions, released in 1964. The song was written by Curtis Mayfield, and features his soulful vocals and signature guitar playing. The song’s lyrics encourage the listener to persevere through life’s challenges and keep moving forward, with lines like “If you ever feel that you can’t make it, baby, just keep on keepin’ on”. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a timeless classic of the era, and its message of resilience and determination continues to inspire listeners today.
7. (Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below, We’re All Going to Go
“(Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below, We’re All Going to Go” is a song written and recorded by Curtis Mayfield in 1970. The song’s lyrics address issues of social and political unrest, with Mayfield’s signature socially-conscious commentary. The song features a powerful and funky groove, Mayfield’s soulful vocals, and innovative use of orchestration and sampling. The song’s message of universal accountability and the need for social change remains relevant to this day. “(Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below, We’re All Going to Go” is regarded as one of Mayfield’s most important works and a classic of the soul and funk genres.
8. Freddie’s Dead
“Freddie’s Dead” is a song by American soul musician Curtis Mayfield, featured on the soundtrack for the 1972 film “Super Fly”. The song is a powerful commentary on the devastating effects of drug addiction, and is named after a character from the film who dies as a result of his involvement in the drug trade. Mayfield’s soulful vocals are supported by a tight, groovy instrumental arrangement that features a prominent bassline and a powerful horn section. “Freddie’s Dead” remains a poignant and relevant commentary on the social issues that continue to affect communities around the world, and is considered a classic of the soul and funk genres.
9. Superfly
“Superfly” is a song written and performed by American musician Curtis Mayfield, released in 1972 as part of the soundtrack for the blaxploitation film of the same name. The song features Mayfield’s trademark falsetto vocals, accompanied by a funky bassline and wah-wah guitar riffs. The lyrics describe the character of the film, Superfly, as a charismatic and powerful figure in a world of poverty and crime. The song’s message of empowerment and self-determination, set against a backdrop of gritty realism, resonated with audiences and cemented Mayfield’s reputation as a socially conscious artist. “Superfly” remains a classic of the era and a testament to Mayfield’s musical and political influence.
10. Move On Up
“Move On Up” is a classic soul and funk song written and recorded by Curtis Mayfield in 1970. The song’s lyrics celebrate the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, with a message of hope and upliftment. The song’s upbeat groove, horn arrangements, and Mayfield’s soaring vocals create a joyous and inspiring atmosphere. “Move On Up” has become one of Mayfield’s most beloved and enduring songs, and has been covered and sampled by countless artists over the years. Its timeless message of resilience and positivity continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a true classic of the soul and funk genres.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
