Sharon Jones and the Dap‐Kings

Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings was an American funk and soul band formed in 1996 in Brooklyn, New York. The band was led by Sharon Jones, a powerful vocalist who had been performing in various bands since the 1960s. The Dap-Kings served as the house band for the Daptone Records label, which was co-founded by Gabriel Roth and Neal Sugarman. The group gained prominence for its authentic revival of classic funk and soul music, drawing inspiration from the sounds of the 1960s and 1970s. They released several critically acclaimed albums and became known for their energetic live performances. Sharon Jones passed away in 2016, but the band has continued to honor her legacy by performing and releasing music.

Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings were heavily influenced by the classic soul and funk sounds of the 1960s and 1970s. They drew inspiration from artists such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and the Stax and Motown labels. The band's sound is characterized by tight horn arrangements, rhythmic grooves, and Jones' powerful, soulful vocals. Their music reflected the rawness and authenticity of the genres they admired, aiming to capture the essence of vintage soul records.

Sharon Jones was often referred to as the 'Queen of Funk,' and she gained widespread recognition later in life after working as a corrections officer. The Dap-Kings were originally assembled as a backing band for Jones, but they quickly developed a distinct sound that set them apart. The band often recorded live in the studio to maintain an organic feel in their music. Their album '100 Days, 100 Nights' was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2008. The band has also collaborated with various artists, including Amy Winehouse on her hit 'Back to Black.'

Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings played a crucial role in the revival of interest in soul and funk music in the 21st century. By staying true to the classic sounds of the genre while also incorporating contemporary elements, they helped introduce a new generation to the rich history of soul music. Their work has been influential in the broader music landscape, inspiring numerous artists and contributing to the resurgence of live instrumentation in popular music.