How Many of the Funk Brothers Are Still Living?
The Funk Brothers, an influential group of session musicians who played on countless Motown hits in the 1960s, have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Formed in the late 1950s, this ensemble of talented musicians became the backbone of Motown Records, contributing to the creation of some of the most iconic songs in music history. However, as time has passed, many members have passed away, leaving fans to wonder how many of the Funk Brothers are still living.
As of now, there are only a few surviving members of the original Funk Brothers. The most notable among them is Uriel Jones, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 72. Jones was known for his dynamic drumming style and was a key component in the Motown sound. Another surviving member is Bob Babbitt, who passed away in 2012 at the age of 73. Babbitt was a bassist and composer who played on numerous Motown hits, including “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Other surviving members include Richard “Pistol” Allen, who is still active in the music industry; Robert White, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 79; and Uriel Jones’ brother, Benny Jones, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 80. These musicians have continued to inspire and influence future generations of musicians, even though the number of living Funk Brothers is dwindling.
The Funk Brothers’ contributions to Motown and the music industry as a whole cannot be overstated. They played on over 10,000 Motown songs, which is a testament to their dedication and skill. Although the original ensemble is no longer intact, the legacy of the Funk Brothers lives on through their music and the influence they have had on countless musicians over the years. As the number of living Funk Brothers continues to decrease, it is important to remember and celebrate their impact on the world of music.
