On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Dr. Rickey Vincent, a music historian, author of Party Music and Funk: The Rhythm on the One, and host of History of Funk on KPFA. The discussion centered on the legacy of Roberta Flack, the Chicago sound, and the recent passing of influential artists such as Roy Ayers, Gwen McCrae, and Jerry Butler.
Roberta Flack: A Quiet Fire in Soul Music
Davey D opened the conversation by reflecting on Roberta Flacks unique presence in music. Despite being a powerful vocalist, Flack is often overlooked in mainstream discussions of soul and R&B greats.
When we say Roberta Flack, I think she had an album title called Quiet Fire, and thats kind of the mental image, said Rickey Vincent. He emphasized how her music carried a peaceful quality, yet it had a soulful power that set her apart.
Vincent recalled first hearing Flacks ballads on the radio, particularly The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. I was into my rowdy phase, but I could flow with this woman right here, he noted. He described how Flacks acoustic sound contrasted sharply with the increasingly electronic and rowdy music landscape of the time.
Roberta Flacks Political Message
Roberta Flack was more than just a singer; she was an artist with a message. Davey D recalled first encountering her music through the politically charged song Business Goes on as Usual from the Chapter Two album. She was definitely speaking about that war in Vietnam, he observed.
Vincent elaborated on Flacks social consciousness, citing her collaborations with Eugene McDaniels and Donny Hathaway. With Roberta Flack, you put her record on and you trusted her, he said. He highlighted her ability to convey deep messages subtly, contrasting her approach with the overt activism of artists like Marvin Gaye.
The Chicago Sound: Jerry Butler and Curtis Mayfields Legacy
The conversation shifted to Jerry Butler and his role in shaping the Chicago soul sound. Vincent emphasized Butlers impact, particularly with songs like Only the Strong Survive. He described the Chicago sound as a blend of soft harmonies with underlying strength, a style Butler helped pioneer alongside Curtis Mayfield.
When you listen to Jerry Butler, he hits that next octave of depth, and you realize thats why youre listening to him, Vincent said. He compared Butlers vocal delivery to that of Teddy Pendergrass, noting that had Butler emerged a decade later, he might have occupied a similar lane in soul music.
The Bay Areas Influence: Remembering Dwayne Wiggins
As a Bay Area native, Davey D took time to honor the late Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Ton! Vincent praised Wiggins as a musician deeply rooted in Oaklands sound and culture.
Everything he said and did was the town, Vincent remarked. He highlighted Wiggins influence on artists like Beyonc and H.E.R. and his commitment to keeping the Oakland sound alive. His guitar licks brought you back to an older era. He had that historical knowledge, and he always put that in the sound.
Conclusion
The conversation between Davey D and Rickey Vincent underscored the deep musical legacies of artists like Roberta Flack, Jerry Butler, and Dwayne Wiggins. Whether through soul, funk, or political consciousness, these artists left an indelible mark on music history.
Listeners can catch Dr. Rickey Vincents show, History of Funk, every Friday night on KPFA. As Hard Knock Radio continues to honor legendary artists, the discussion on Black musics evolution remains as relevant as ever.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.