Kidd Funkadelic: A Musical Journey of Innovation and Collaboration
George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic recently performed with a symphony orchestra at the Detroit Opera House, joined by special guests like Vernon Reid, Nona Hendryx, and Rahsaan Patterson. The band members, who recorded much of their iconic work in Detroit, had a special homecoming. P-Funk guitarist Michael "Kidd Funkadelic" Hampton, originally from Cleveland, Ohio, reminisced about his early music days, including playing with the group Eddie and the Ant Hill Mob. The band released a single, "I'm a Number Runner," which was reissued by Numero Group in 2010. Hampton's involvement in the song remains unclear, but he shared memories of his early jam sessions and performances in the area.
Hampton's musical journey led him to join Clinton and Funkadelic as a 17-year-old guitarist, showcasing his talent and versatility. He honed his skills by playing along with various records and jamming with local musicians. His audition for Funkadelic, where he played a rendition of "Maggot Brain," led to him joining the band after Eddie Hazel's departure. Hampton debunked the myth of playing the solo note-perfectly, emphasizing the nuances and studio effects that influenced the recording. Despite variations in his live performances, fans appreciate his interpretation of the iconic solo.
As "Kidd Funkadelic," Hampton continues to evolve as a musician, collaborating with artists like Shooter Jennings and Phil Keaggy on his latest EP, "Into the Public Domain." The EP, recorded at Sunset Sound, features a blend of rock, world music, jazz, and Western influences. Hampton's innovative approach includes releasing the tracks under a public-domain license, allowing for royalty-free usage and remixing by fans and artists. The EP is available through traditional channels and comes with collectible trading cards containing QR codes for a unique listening experience.
Hampton's creative process for "Into the Public Domain" reflects his desire for collaborative and unrestricted music sharing. He envisions a community of artists creating and remixing music freely, emphasizing collective ownership and creativity. The EP marks the beginning of a series of releases, showcasing Hampton's ongoing musical exploration and commitment to artistic collaboration. As he looks ahead to future projects, Hampton remains focused on sharing his music and connecting with listeners in innovative ways.