Cissy Strut” – Grooves That Make You Sway and Horns that Will Blow Your Mind Away

“Cissy Strut,” a cornerstone of funk music, burst onto the scene in 1968 courtesy of The Meters, a band hailing from the musical hotbed of New Orleans. This instrumental masterpiece, clocking in at just over four minutes, is an irresistible blend of tight grooves, infectious melodies, and explosive horns – a sonic cocktail guaranteed to get any listener moving.

The genesis of “Cissy Strut” can be traced back to The Meters’ rehearsal sessions, where guitarist Leo Nocentelli crafted the initial riff that would become the song’s defining characteristic. The melody is deceptively simple yet incredibly effective, weaving its way into your brain and refusing to let go.

Nocentelli’s guitar work sets the stage for a sonic journey, punctuated by Art Neville’s soulful organ chords and Joseph Lastie’s driving bass lines. The rhythm section – drummer Zigaboo Modeliste in particular – is the heartbeat of the track, laying down a hypnotic groove that compels you to tap your feet and bob your head.

But what truly elevates “Cissy Strut” from a good song to an iconic one are the horns. Trumpeter Cyril Neville enters with a punchy, blues-infused solo that adds another layer of depth and excitement to the already vibrant tapestry. The interplay between the guitar, keyboards, bass, drums, and horns creates a dynamic sonic landscape that’s both exhilarating and deeply satisfying.

The Meters: New Orleans Funk Pioneers

To fully appreciate “Cissy Strut,” it’s essential to delve into the history of The Meters themselves – pioneers of the New Orleans funk sound. Formed in 1965, the band initially played as a backing group for various local artists before establishing themselves as a formidable force in their own right. Their distinctive style was characterized by infectious grooves, intricate rhythms, and soulful melodies, drawing heavily from the musical traditions of their hometown – jazz, blues, R&B, and second line parades.

The Meters’ lineup throughout their career remained remarkably consistent:

• Art Neville (keyboards, vocals): A New Orleans legend in his own right, Neville was known for his soulful vocals and distinctive keyboard style, blending gospel influences with the grit of funk. His organ playing on “Cissy Strut” is instantly recognizable, driving the song forward with its rhythmic punch and melodic flair.

• Leo Nocentelli (guitar): The architect of “Cissy Strut’s” iconic riff, Nocentelli was a masterful guitarist whose style blended bluesy licks with funky rhythms. His playing on “Cissy Strut” is economical yet incredibly effective, perfectly complementing the other instruments in the mix.

• Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste (drums): Modeliste’s drumming on “Cissy Strut” is a masterclass in rhythmic precision and creativity. He lays down a driving groove that’s both infectious and complex, showcasing his exceptional technical skills. His unique approach to drumming – incorporating polyrhythms and intricate fills – became a hallmark of The Meters’ sound.

• George Porter Jr. (bass): Porter’s bass lines provide the foundation for the song’s hypnotic groove. His playing is both melodic and driving, seamlessly weaving together with the drums and guitar to create a dynamic rhythmic tapestry.

• Cyril Neville (percussion, vocals): Cyril’s trumpet solo on “Cissy Strut” is one of the song’s most memorable elements. He injects a dose of bluesy soulfulness into the track, adding another layer of texture and emotion.

The Legacy of “Cissy Strut”

“Cissy Strut,” with its infectious groove and explosive horns, became an instant classic upon its release, charting high on the R&B charts and becoming a staple of funk radio stations across the country. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal – a perfect blend of rhythm, melody, and soul that transcends generations.

“Cissy Strut,” with its infectious groove and explosive horns, became an instant classic upon its release, charting high on the R&B charts and becoming a staple of funk radio stations across the country. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal – a perfect blend of rhythm, melody, and soul that transcends generations.

Beyond its commercial success, “Cissy Strut” has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of musicians. Countless artists have covered or sampled the track, incorporating its signature groove and melodic motifs into their own music.

The song’s legacy extends beyond the realm of music:

“Cissy Strut” in Popular Culture:

• Sampling: The song’s iconic riff has been sampled by a wide range of artists across various genres, including hip-hop, electronic music, and pop. Notable examples include Cypress Hill’s “How I Could Just Kill a Man,” and DJ Kool Herc’s “The Breaks.”

• Film and Television: “Cissy Strut” has appeared in numerous films and television shows, often serving as a backdrop for scenes depicting energetic celebrations or street life.

A Timeless Funk Anthem

“Cissy Strut” is more than just a song – it’s an experience. It’s a sonic journey that transports you to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where music is woven into the very fabric of life.

From the infectious groove to the explosive horns, “Cissy Strut” embodies the essence of funk – raw energy, soulful melodies, and a relentless drive to make you move. Whether you’re a seasoned funk aficionado or just discovering the genre for the first time, “Cissy Strut” is an essential listen.

Put it on, crank up the volume, and let yourself get swept away by the irresistible power of The Meters’ iconic masterpiece.