Ep 1. George Clinton: Funky Yeah!

In the first episode of season 7, titled "George Clinton: Funky Yeah!", American Restoration viewers are in for a treat as they witness the restoration process of an epic piece of music history. The show follows Rick Dale, owner of Rick's Restorations, as he takes on the task of revitalizing a 1950s vintage B-3 Hammond organ that originally belonged to George Clinton, the iconic funk musician and founder of Parliament-Funkadelic.

Rick's team dives right in to disassemble the organ, revealing a rusted and deteriorating interior. The team notes that the organ must have been played extensively throughout the years, causing different parts to suffer from wear and tear. Despite the massive scope of the project, Rick is determined to restore the organ to its former glory, even if it means fabricating the parts themselves.

As the team progresses through the restoration, they face many obstacles. They must find a specific part that has been discontinued for years, so they have to get creative and combine different parts to fill the void. Additionally, the size of the organ proves to be a formidable challenge as it requires not only mechanical restoration but also the help of a wiring specialist.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a clear picture of the passion and precision that Rick and his team put into their work. The music-loving team works meticulously to ensure the sound of the organ is true to its original form. They contact George Clinton himself to confirm the authenticity of the sound and the success of the restoration as a whole.

The show also features interviews with George Clinton, providing insights into his connection with his beloved organ and its importance in his music career. Clinton's admiration for the organ is palpable as he reflects on the memories and experiences it has provided him over the years.

In addition to the restoration process, the episode showcases Rick's charming personality, as he lends an ear to the life stories of his clients. The personal connection between Rick and his customers is a key aspect of the show's appeal, and this episode is no exception. From art dealers to collectors, showrunners highlight the unique perspectives and backgrounds that their customers bring.

The episode culminates in the reveal of the restored organ, which is almost unrecognizable compared to its rusted and dilapidated initial form. The organ's once-muted reds and yellows are now brightly shining, and its sound is just as amazing as it was in its prime. The satisfaction and happiness on George Clinton's face is evident as he plays the organ for the first time after restoration, providing the perfect ending to an inspiring episode.

In conclusion, "George Clinton: Funky Yeah!" is an engaging, heartwarming, and informative episode that showcases the hard work and dedication that goes into the restoration of iconic music pieces. It's a must-watch for history buffs, social and cultural enthusiasts, and most importantly, music lovers.