On the episode, Badd Kitti pays tribute to the Godmother of Funk, Betty Davis, on what would have been her 78th birthday.

Davis’ provocative lyrics and stage performance were considered too risque in the early 1970s. A little more than a decade later, her ‘in your face’ sexuality would influence and pave the way for artists such as Prince, Madonna and Janet Jackson.

But Davis was much more than a provocateur. Her heavy, hard-hitting Funk predated the age of the dominant female vocalist, such as Patti LaBelle and Chaka Khan, that would emerge in the mid 1970s-80s. She wrote and produced her own music, unheard of for a female artist. She had the uncanny ability to cultivate relationships with superstars of her era, including Hugh Masekela, Herbie Hancock, Alphonse Mouzon and Larry Graham, all of whom performed on her albums. Her introduction of friend Jimi Hendrix to Miles Davis, to whom she was briefly married, is said to have inspired the creation of jazz fusion.

Davis’ genius and indelible influence should have made her a household name. While that isn’t the case, she is definitely a cult figure whose lasting legacy continues to inspire all those who discover her music.

Part 1 – Podcast Listeners Only – Subscribe to The Funk Excursion where ever you get your podcasts!
Davis’ early career, most important work and stylistic influence on female funk artists is examined. *Featuring Badd Kitti’s interview with Funk House Davis’ longtime house and touring band.

Part 2 – Web Site Only www.thefunkexcursion.com
Badd Kitti plays a sample of contemporary artists’ by whom Davis her self was inspired.
Featuring Jimi Hendrix, The O’Jays, Aretha Franklin and more… and additional tracks from Davis.

(This episode was originally broadcast in February, 2022 upon Ms. Davis’ death at the age of 77.)