All-Star Tribute To The Funky Drummer Clyde Stubblefield @ American Beauty NYC

On February 18th, the world of music lost one of its brightest shining stars, the inimitable Clyde Stubblefield. The “Funky Drummer,” as he was affectionately known, laid down the rhythmic foundation for some of James Brown‘s biggest hits, adding drums to the albums Cold Sweat, I Got the Feelin’, It’s a Mother, Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud, and the groundbreaking Sex Machine record. His drumbeat on the track “Funky Drummer” was so influential that it has become one of the most sampled segments of music of all time, and is heavily featured in classic hip hop tracks by legends like Run-D.M.C., N.W.A., Beastie Boys, and more.

With Stubblefield’s unfortunate passing on February 18th, fans of the funk and hip-hop pioneer have been searching for a way to pay their respects to one of the most important musicians of the modern era. Thankfully, an all-star cast of musicians will assemble at American Beauty NYC on Friday, March 10th for “The Funky Drummer: An All-Star Tribute To Clyde Stubblefield!” (purchase tickets here). Former James Brown Band member Fred Thomas will hold down the bass, while Daru Jones of Jack White‘s band, and Eric Kalb of Eric Krasno Band will hold down the rest of the rhythm section. Marcus Machado and Chris Rob will add guitar and keys, respectively, and the horn section will be made up of Justin Stanton of Snarky Puppy, V. Jeffery Smith, and Smair Zarif. The band will also be joined by some surprise special guests throughout the evening, which will center on Stubblefield’s contribution to James Brown’s catalog.