‘Get Down on It’: Kool & The Gang’s Influence on Funk and Disco

When Kool & The Gang released ‘Get Down on It’ in 1981, they cemented their place as one of the most iconic acts in funk and disco history. The infectious groove, catchy hooks, and upbeat lyrics made it an instant classic, one that not only dominated dance floors but also became an enduring symbol of the era. ‘Get Down on It’ played a key role in defining the musical landscape of the late ’70s and early ’80s, a time when funk and disco were at their peak, and its influence continues to be felt in music today.

The Rise of Kool & The Gang

Before ‘Get Down on It,’ Kool & The Gang had already established themselves as pioneers in the funk and soul genres. Formed in 1964, the band initially embraced a jazz-inspired sound, but by the mid-’70s, they had shifted towards a more dance-oriented, funk-heavy approach. Tracks like ‘Jungle Boogie’ (1973) and ‘Hollywood Swinging’ (1974) set the stage for their transition into the mainstream. Their ability to blend soulful melodies with tight rhythms and infectious grooves quickly won them a dedicated following.

However, it wasn’t until the late ’70s, during the disco era, that Kool & The Gang truly found their groove in the commercial mainstream. With their 1979 album Ladies’ Night, the group made a pivotal shift towards a more polished, pop-friendly sound, embracing the dancefloor-driven style that would dominate the decade.

‘Get Down on It’: A Dance Anthem

Released as a single from their 1981 album Something Special, ‘Get Down on It’ marked the band’s full embrace of the disco and funk fusion that had become so popular at the time. The track’s signature bassline, syncopated rhythm, and horns instantly captured the feel-good, party-ready energy that defined the genre.

The song opens with an infectious bassline that immediately beckons listeners to hit the dance floor, and as the infectious groove builds, the lyrics “Get down on it, get down on it” offer a call to action that encouraged listeners to embrace the rhythm and lose themselves in the music. The chorus was irresistibly catchy, and the upbeat, celebratory vibe made it a perfect fit for the disco scene.

But ‘Get Down on It’ was more than just a dance track; it was a statement. The lyrics, which invite listeners to engage with the music and “get down,” echoed the spirit of empowerment and liberation that was central to the disco movement. It emphasized the collective joy of dancing, further elevating Kool & The Gang to the level of cultural icons during this vibrant time.

Funk Meets Pop: A New Era for Kool & The Gang

By the time ‘Get Down on It’ was released, Kool & The Gang had mastered the art of blending funk with pop sensibilities, ensuring their relevance across radio formats and music charts. While their earlier work had been rooted in jazz and soul influences, their late ’70s and early ’80s output reflected a shift toward a more accessible sound that appealed to both disco lovers and mainstream pop audiences.

The track’s success on the charts, peaking at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the R&B chart, was a testament to the widespread appeal of this blend of funk and pop. It also helped solidify the group’s place among the top musical acts of the era, alongside artists like Chic, Earth, Wind & Fire, and the Jacksons, who were all riding the wave of the disco-funk crossover.

‘Get Down on It’ also continued the group’s legacy of crafting memorable, singable hooks, a hallmark of their best work. The chorus became an anthem for both parties and performances, and its high energy matched the spirit of the times—no small feat in an era marked by both the vibrancy of disco and the rise of pop and new wave sounds.

Influence on Funk and Disco

‘Get Down on It’ is often hailed as one of Kool & The Gang’s defining moments, but it also played an important role in furthering the influence of funk and disco on the global music scene. The song’s success highlighted the ability of the genre to cross boundaries and appeal to audiences beyond the traditional dance crowd. The track, and the band’s evolution, also showed that funk and disco were not just fleeting trends but enduring sounds with the potential to evolve and adapt to the changing tastes of music lovers.

In the years following its release, ‘Get Down on It’ became a fixture on the dance floors and in pop culture, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. It exemplified the crossover potential of funk-infused dance music during the early ’80s, bridging the gap between the soulful, party-driven vibes of disco and the emerging pop music sensibilities that dominated the next decade.

Today, the track remains a go-to anthem for celebrations and parties, and it continues to be sampled and covered by artists across genres. Its timeless groove and feel-good energy have ensured its place as a lasting testament to Kool & The Gang’s impact on the world of music.

A Lasting Legacy

‘Get Down on It’ helped solidify Kool & The Gang’s status as one of the defining acts of funk and disco, and its influence continues to resonate. By blending tight rhythms, infectious hooks, and an undeniable sense of joy, the song not only captured the essence of an era but also contributed to shaping the sound of dance music for generations to come. Kool & The Gang’s legacy, fuelled by tracks like ‘Get Down on It,’ remains a cornerstone of the funk and disco movements, and their music will forever be associated with the pure joy of getting down on the dance floor.

Also Read: A-ha’s ‘Take on Me’ and Its Connection to 1980s Synth-Pop

—Silviya.Y