“Cissy Strut” This Funky Track Will Make You Want To Move Your Feet and Groove All Night Long

“Cissy Strut”, a scorching slice of funk heaven, hails from the legendary Meters, a band synonymous with the New Orleans sound. Released in 1969 as part of their self-titled debut album on the Josie Records label, this instrumental track is a testament to the band’s raw energy and unparalleled musicianship. The driving rhythm section, punctuated by Art Neville’s iconic organ melody and Leo Nocentelli’s biting guitar licks, lays the groundwork for an irresistible groove that will have you moving from the first downbeat.

The Meters weren’t just another funk band; they were musical alchemists, fusing elements of jazz, blues, and R&B into a uniquely infectious sound that transcended genre boundaries. Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, a vibrant melting pot of cultures and musical traditions, The Meters embodied the spirit of their city.

Their story begins in the early 1960s with the Neville Brothers – Art on keyboards and vocals, Cyril on percussion and vocals – joining forces with bassist George Porter Jr. and drummer Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste. Together, they formed a tight-knit musical unit, honing their skills playing at local clubs and becoming a fixture in the vibrant New Orleans music scene.

The band’s initial sound was heavily rooted in rhythm and blues, influenced by giants like James Brown and Ray Charles. However, as the decade progressed and soul music began to evolve, The Meters embraced the emerging funk movement. Their music reflected the changing times, incorporating syncopated rhythms, infectious bass lines, and extended instrumental jams that showcased their virtuosic skills.

“Cissy Strut”: A Deep Dive into a Funk Masterpiece

The title of “Cissy Strut” is shrouded in mystery, leaving room for speculation and conjecture. Some believe it refers to a specific dance move popular at the time, while others speculate about a romantic connection or even a playful nod to a female friend within their circle. Regardless of its origin, the name perfectly captures the essence of the track – a swaggering, confident strut that oozes funkiness from every note.

The song opens with a powerful drumbeat by Zigaboo Modeliste, his signature polyrhythmic groove laying down a foundation for the rest of the band to build upon. Porter Jr.’s bassline enters next, weaving a melodic counterpoint to the drums while simultaneously locking into the rhythmic pocket. Then, Art Neville’s unmistakable organ melody emerges, its bright and soulful tones instantly transporting listeners to the heart of New Orleans.

Nocentelli’s guitar joins in, adding sharp punctuations and soaring solos that weave in and out of the other instruments. The interplay between the musicians is remarkable; each player seamlessly interacts with the others, creating a sonic conversation that is both dynamic and cohesive.

The track builds to a frenzy, showcasing each musician’s individual brilliance while maintaining a unified sense of purpose. Modeliste’s drumming is truly awe-inspiring – his intricate polyrhythms and masterful control create an irresistible rhythmic tapestry. Porter Jr.’s bassline is both melodic and driving, anchoring the song while also providing harmonic depth. Neville’s organ playing is soulful and expressive, adding layers of texture and emotion to the overall sound.

Nocentelli’s guitar solos are a highlight – they are blistering and inventive, filled with bluesy bends and funk-inspired licks. He effortlessly blends in with the other instruments while also showcasing his individual virtuosity.

The Legacy of “Cissy Strut” and The Meters

“Cissy Strut” became an instant hit upon its release, charting on the Billboard R&B chart and earning widespread acclaim for its infectious groove and undeniable coolness. It remains a staple in funk playlists and continues to be sampled and remixed by contemporary artists across various genres.

The track’s enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless quality of The Meters’ music. They created a sound that was both deeply rooted in tradition and forward-looking, paving the way for countless other funk and soul artists who followed in their footsteps.

Beyond “Cissy Strut”: The Rich Catalog of The Meters

While “Cissy Strut” is undoubtedly one of The Meters’ most iconic tracks, it is just one gem within a vast and diverse catalog. Their discography spans over two decades, encompassing numerous studio albums, live recordings, and compilations that showcase their musical versatility and enduring appeal.

Here are some highlights from their remarkable career:

Album Title	Year Released	Notable Tracks
The Meters	1969	“Cissy Strut”, “Sophisticated Cissy”
Rejuvenation	1974	“Fire on the Bayou,” “Doodle Doo Doo”
Funkify Your Life	1974	“Just Kissed My Baby”, “People Say”
New Orleans Funk	1976	“It Ain’t No Use”

The Meters remained active throughout the 1970s, consistently delivering high-quality music that blended funk, soul, and jazz influences. They toured extensively, sharing their unique sound with audiences around the world.

While the band officially disbanded in 1977, its members continued to pursue individual musical careers. Art Neville formed the Neville Brothers band with his siblings, achieving immense success with hits like “Yellow Moon” and “Sister Rosa.” The other Meters members also remained active, contributing their talents to various projects and collaborating with other musicians.

In the late 1980s, The Meters reunited for a series of performances and eventually recorded new material together. Their comeback proved that their music was as relevant and enjoyable as ever, demonstrating the enduring power of their collective talent.

Even today, decades after their initial rise to fame, The Meters’ music continues to inspire and delight listeners worldwide. “Cissy Strut” remains a timeless anthem, inviting everyone to join in its infectious groove and celebrate the undeniable spirit of funk.