Funk music is built on a foundation of rhythm, groove, and unique harmonic structures that create its infectious, high-energy sound. Whether you’re a budding keyboardist or an experienced player looking to sharpen your skills, understanding funk harmony is essential for bringing authenticity and creativity to your playing. This guide will break down the key elements of funk harmony, providing practical tips and tricks used by professionals.
What Makes Funk Harmony Unique?
Funk harmony is characterized by:
- Complex chord progressions featuring rich extensions and alterations
- Syncopated rhythms that drive the groove
- Unique voicings that add color and tension
- The use of dominant 7th, sus4, and ii-V progressions
For players, mastering funk harmony is especially important, as they are responsible for comping and supporting the band’s harmonic foundation.
Essential Funk Chord Voicings
Dominant 7th Sus4 Chords – A Funk Staple
Dominant 7th sus4 chords are a staple in funk music. While playing just the chord tones is fine, using extensions like 9ths and 13ths adds depth and excitement.
In the “spicier” examples above, notice that the left hand is playing simply root-5th, or root-5th-7th.
Also, note that the right hand is playing what looks like a Bb major 7th chord (1st example) and a D minor 7th chord (2nd example). Some students find it helpful to remember these voicings by thinking of either a major 7th chord a whole-step below the root (1st example), or a minor 7th chord a whole-step above the root (2nd example).
These voicings create lush harmonies while maintaining the groove.
Must-Know Funk Keyboard Grooves
Every serious funk keyboardist should familiarize themselves with classic funk grooves. These grooves establish the harmonic and rhythmic feel of the genre. Some essential funk songs to study include:
- “Superstition” – Stevie Wonder
- “Chameleon” – Herbie Hancock
- “Use Me” – Bill Withers
- “Cissy Strut” – The Meters
- “September” – Earth, Wind & Fire
Learning these grooves will help you internalize common chord progressions and rhythmic patterns that define funk music.
The Power of the “ii – V” Progression in Funk
The “ii – V” progression (minor 7th chord to dominant 7th chord) is one of the most frequently used harmonic movements in funk. Entire songs are based around this progression, including:
- “Chameleon” – Herbie Hancock
- “I Wish” – Stevie Wonder
So the lesson here is that you REALLY want to be in full command of the “ii – V” progression.
Practicing different voicings of the ii-V progression will give you greater control and fluency when playing funk.
A great practice exercise is to find three different ways to play the same thing. For example, here are three different ways to play a “ii – V” progression (Ebmin7 to Ab7):
First…
Second…
Third…
Final Thoughts
Mastering funk harmony requires a deep understanding of chord voicings, rhythmic comping, and essential progressions like the ii-V. By learning classic grooves, experimenting with extended harmonies, and practicing essential progressions, you’ll develop the skills necessary to create authentic and compelling funk music.
Keep grooving, keep practicing, and most importantly—have fun with funk harmony!
