Funkadelic "(Not Just) Knee Deep"
Funkadelic, led by George Clinton, played a crucial role in shaping the psychedelic funk movement of the 1970s. Known for their blend of rock, soul, and deep funk grooves, the band produced some of the most innovative and influential music of their time.
Released in 1979, (Not Just) Knee Deep is one of Funkadelic’s most iconic tracks. Featured on the album Uncle Jam Wants You, this song became a defining moment in funk history and later served as a major influence in hip-hop, with its groove being heavily sampled by countless artists.
This article explores the background, songwriting and production, chart success, and music video of (Not Just) Knee Deep.
Song Overview
(Not Just) Knee Deep is a funk masterpiece that showcases the genre’s signature elements—tight grooves, syncopated rhythms, and infectious basslines. The track starts with an irresistible guitar riff, followed by an upbeat bassline and steady, driving drum patterns that create an engaging danceable rhythm.
The song's lyrics humorously describe a man who wants to impress women and become irresistible to them. George Clinton’s playful wordplay and signature storytelling style add to the track’s charm.
One of the most distinctive aspects of the song is its extended length. The full album version runs over 15 minutes, featuring instrumental breakdowns, vocal improvisations, and evolving grooves that keep the track dynamic and engaging. While the single version was significantly shortened for radio play, the full-length version remains a favorite among funk enthusiasts.
Songwriting and Production
(Not Just) Knee Deep was written and produced by George Clinton, the mastermind behind Parliament-Funkadelic. Clinton was known for his ability to fuse funk with rock, psychedelia, and electronic elements, creating music that was both innovative and deeply rooted in the groove.
The song features Michael Hampton on lead guitar, delivering a signature funky riff that carries the track. His playing, combined with the rhythmic precision of Funkadelic’s musicians, helped define the song’s infectious energy.
The production style is characteristic of P-Funk, with layered instrumentation, call-and-response vocals, and a hypnotic groove that extends for the duration of the song. The track’s infectious nature and complex layering made it a standout piece in Funkadelic’s catalog.
Charts
(Not Just) Knee Deep was a major success upon its release. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart (now known as the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart), marking one of Funkadelic’s biggest commercial achievements.
The song’s influence extended far beyond its initial release, as it became one of the most sampled tracks in hip-hop history. Notably, De La Soul sampled the song in their 1989 hit Me Myself and I, introducing a new generation to Funkadelic’s groove. Other artists, including Dr. Dre, 2Pac, and Snoop Dogg, have also used elements of the song in their own music.
This widespread sampling cemented (Not Just) Knee Deep as a cornerstone of funk and hip-hop, ensuring its legacy across multiple genres.
Music Video
At the time of its release, (Not Just) Knee Deep did not have an official music video. However, live performances and footage from the late 1970s and early 1980s capture Funkadelic’s electrifying stage presence.
George Clinton and the P-Funk collective were known for their extravagant costumes, psychedelic stage designs, and high-energy performances, all of which complemented the song’s funky aesthetic.
In later years, various fan-made and unofficial videos have been created, using archival footage and visual effects to match the song’s psychedelic, groovy feel.
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