“Superstition” by Wonder is one of the greatest funk songs ever. Released in 1972, it has an unforgettable groove, catchy rhythm, and energetic vibe. The funky clavinet riff is instantly recognizable.

The foundations of funk were laid down in the mid-1960s, when James Brown began to emphasize the first beat of each measure in his stage-tested and frenzy-inducing R&B songs. Before the decade’s end, ...

If there was a Mount Funkmore for the greatest funk bassists, Marcus Miller’s face and trademark porkpie hat would be sculpted into that musical monument. Miller honed his musical chops during funk’s ...