About this album
Where they were
Released on April 27, 1968, 'Dance to the Music' was Sly and the Family Stone's second studio album. This album followed their debut, 'A Whole New Thing,' and marked a significant shift towards their signature sound that blended genres like funk, rock, and soul. At this point in their career, the band was beginning to establish themselves as pioneers of the emerging funk genre.
Why it matters
'Dance to the Music' is notable for its role in popularizing funk music and for reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The title track became an anthem for dance culture during the late 1960s and helped cement Sly and the Family Stone's reputation as a leading force in the music scene, influencing countless artists in both funk and rock genres.
Essential tracks
- "Dance to the Music" — The title track is a quintessential funk anthem that encapsulates the album's spirit with its infectious rhythm and call to dance.
- "Higher" — 'Higher' showcases Sly Stone's innovative blend of rock and soul, featuring uplifting lyrics and a catchy hook that exemplify the band's ethos.
- "Are You Ready" — 'Are You Ready' combines rhythmic intensity with engaging lyrics, serving as a perfect example of Sly's ability to unify diverse musical elements.
- "Soul Clappin’" — This track highlights the band's communal spirit and energy, encouraging audience participation through its infectious groove and celebratory vibe.
- "I Ain’t Got Nobody (For Real)" — This song brings a more reflective tone to the album, juxtaposing deeper themes with upbeat instrumentation, showcasing their versatility.
Release Date
April 27, 1968
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Dance to the Music 3:00
- 2 Higher 2:49
- 3 I Ain’t Got Nobody (For Real) 4:26
- 4 Dance to the Medley 12:12
- 5 Ride the Rhythm 2:48
- 6 Color Me True 3:10
- 7 Are You Ready 2:50
- 8 Don’t Burn Baby 3:14
- 9 I’ll Never Fall in Love Again 3:25
- 10 Soul Clappin’ 2:37
