Clyde Stubblefield - Funky Drummer

About

Clyde Stubblefield was a renowned American drummer, celebrated for his iconic work with James Brown from 1965 to 1970. During this period, he, along with John "Jabo" Starks, helped create some of Brown's most enduring tracks, including "Cold Sweat," "I Got the Feelin'," and "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud." Stubblefield's innovative drum patterns, particularly his break in "Funky Drummer," have become standards in funk drumming. Stubblefield's influence extends far beyond his work with James Brown. His drum breaks have been sampled extensively in hip-hop and other genres, appearing in songs by Public Enemy, LL Cool J, and George Michael. Despite the widespread use of his rhythms, Stubblefield often received no credit or royalties. He continued to perform and record music throughout his life, releasing solo albums like "The Revenge of the Funky Drummer" and becoming a staple of the Madison, Wisconsin music scene after settling there in 1971.