George Clinton, the visionary behind the iconic bands Parliament/Funkadelic, has been immortalized with a star on the renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame. Amidst a chorus of “we want the funk; we gotta have that funk,” Clinton’s induction ceremony on January 19th was a jubilant affair, attended by luminaries from the worlds of music, civil rights, and entertainment.
Located at 6752 Hollywood Blvd. in front of the Musicians Institute, Clinton’s star, the 2769th in the Walk of Fame’s constellation of honorees, serves as a permanent testament to his groundbreaking contributions to the music industry. Speaking at the ceremony, Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, and songwriter Janie Bradford paid heartfelt tributes to Clinton’s enduring influence.
As the driving force behind Parliament/Funkadelic, Clinton charted a cosmic odyssey through funk’s vast and vibrant universe, delivering timeless classics that have become the soundtrack of generations. From “(I Wanna) Testify” to “Atomic Dog,” his innovative fusion of funk, soul, and psychedelic rock has left an indelible mark on popular culture.
In his acceptance speech, Clinton, affectionately known as “Dr. Funkenstein,” humorously acknowledged his emotional state, opting to read his remarks to ensure their coherence. Expressing gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him, he emphasized the transformative power of music and the collective spirit of funk.
Acknowledging the countless musicians who have contributed to his musical journey, Clinton underscored the collaborative ethos that has defined his career. He thanked both present and absent band members, recognizing their integral role in shaping the distinctive sound and ethos of Parliament/Funkadelic.
Furthermore, Clinton highlighted the universal appeal of funk, citing its influence on a diverse array of artists, from the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Kendrick Lamar. He paid tribute to those who have drawn inspiration from the “DNA of funk,” fueling his resolve to advocate for artists’ rights in an ever-evolving industry.
Ben Crump, echoing sentiments of unity and empowerment, lauded Clinton as a cultural trailblazer whose music transcends boundaries and unites people from all walks of life. Janie Bradford, reflecting on Clinton’s enduring impact, marveled at his boundless creativity and tireless dedication to his craft.
As the star was unveiled amidst cheers and applause, it symbolized not only George Clinton’s remarkable achievements but also the enduring power of funk as a force for unity, empowerment, and social change. With his star shining brightly on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dr. Funkenstein’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
Photo: Getty Images
