Ep 6. Bootsy Collins

Bootsy Collins is the subject of the sixth episode of season two of UnSung, a documentary series that explores the untold stories of influential R&B, soul, and hip-hop artists. Bootsy Collins is a veteran bassist, singer, and songwriter who rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a member of Parliament-Funkadelic and as a solo artist. Throughout his career, Collins has worked with some of the most iconic artists in the music industry, including James Brown, George Clinton, and Prince, to name a few.

The episode delves into Collins' early life in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he grew up in a musical family. He learned to play the guitar and bass at a young age and became a regular performer in local clubs and venues. In the mid-1960s, Collins joined James Brown's backing band, The J.B.'s, and played on some of Brown's most famous records, including "Sex Machine" and "Super Bad." This experience gave Collins a taste of the music industry and taught him valuable lessons about stage presence and showmanship.

After leaving Brown's band, Collins joined Parliament-Funkadelic, a group led by George Clinton that blended funk, rock, and psychedelic music. Collins quickly became one of the group's key members, playing bass, singing backup vocals, and contributing to the songwriting process. He also developed a signature style that involved wearing flamboyant outfits, sporting oversized sunglasses, and playing a bass guitar that was decorated with stars and glitter. This persona helped to establish Collins as a unique and memorable figure in the music world.

The UnSung episode features interviews with Collins himself, as well as with his friends, family members, and fellow musicians. They discuss Collins' impact on funk music and how his sound has influenced multiple generations of artists. The episode also touches on the challenges that Collins faced during his career, including struggles with addiction and the pressure to maintain his creative edge.

One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion of Collins' solo career, which began in the late 1970s. Collins released a string of successful albums that showcased his distinctive voice and songwriting talents. His solo work featured collaborations with a wide range of artists, including Fred Wesley, Maceo Parker, and Bernie Worrell. The UnSung episode emphasizes the significance of Collins' solo output and argues that he deserves more recognition for his contributions to funk music.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to vintage concert footage, as well as interviews with music writers and critics who contextualize Collins' career within the broader history of funk and R&B. The episode is a fascinating look at an often-overlooked artist who has had an enormous impact on the music world.

In conclusion, the sixth episode of UnSung's second season, entitled Bootsy Collins, is a fascinating exploration of one of the most influential figures in funk music. The episode traces Collins' musical journey, from his early days in Cincinnati to his work with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic, and his successful solo career. Featuring interviews with Collins himself, as well as with his peers and collaborators, the episode is a testament to Collins' lasting influence on the music world.