Cissy Strut - A Euphoric Dance Floor Anthem Dripping with Infectious Grooves

Cissy Strut - A Euphoric Dance Floor Anthem Dripping with Infectious Grooves

“Cissy Strut”, an electrifying instrumental masterpiece released in 1968, stands as a testament to the raw power and undeniable groove of New Orleans funk.

The track’s origins can be traced back to The Meters, a legendary quartet hailing from the vibrant Crescent City music scene. Founded by Art Neville on keyboards and vocals, George Porter Jr. on bass, Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste on drums, and Leo Nocentelli on guitar, the band seamlessly blended elements of rhythm & blues, soul, jazz, and Caribbean influences into their unique sonic tapestry.

Driven by Zigaboo’s thunderous drumbeat, a syncopated groove that pulsates with infectious energy, “Cissy Strut” instantly grabs hold of the listener and refuses to let go. Art Neville’s swirling organ lines intertwine with Nocentelli’s crisp guitar riffs, creating a sonic landscape that is both exhilarating and danceable. The melody, deceptively simple yet irresistibly catchy, burrows into your brain and compels you to move.

It’s fascinating to delve into the story behind the song’s title. While “Cissy Strut” doesn’t directly reference a person named Cissy, it was inspired by a specific dance move popular in New Orleans at the time. The strut, characterized by its swaggering rhythm and confident attitude, perfectly embodied the spirit of the music itself – bold, playful, and undeniably cool.

The song’s impact transcended geographical boundaries, becoming an anthem for dancers and funk enthusiasts worldwide. It solidified The Meters’ reputation as pioneers of New Orleans funk, paving the way for countless other artists who would follow in their footsteps.

Deconstructing “Cissy Strut”: A Musical Journey

To truly appreciate the genius of “Cissy Strut”, it’s crucial to dissect its various musical elements:

  • The Groove: Zigaboo Modeliste’s drumming is the backbone of the song, driving its infectious energy. He employs a distinctive syncopated rhythm, characterized by off-beat accents and unexpected pauses, creating a sense of both anticipation and release. This groove, often imitated but rarely replicated, has become synonymous with New Orleans funk.

  • The Melody: The melody is deceptively simple, consisting of repeating musical phrases that are easy to remember and sing along to. But within its simplicity lies a profound sense of joy and liberation. It’s a melody that invites movement, encouraging listeners to let loose and embrace the dance floor.

  • The Instrumentation: Art Neville’s Hammond organ provides a warm, swirling backdrop, adding depth and texture to the music. Joseph Nocentelli’s guitar work is both precise and funky, complementing the rhythm section perfectly. The interplay between these instruments creates a dynamic sonic landscape that is both captivating and exhilarating.

Beyond “Cissy Strut”: The Legacy of The Meters “Cissy Strut” was just one piece of the musical puzzle assembled by The Meters. Their discography boasts a treasure trove of funk classics, including “Fire on the Bayou”, “Look-Ka Py Py”, and “Sophisticated Cissy”. These tracks solidified The Meters’ place in music history, cementing their reputation as masters of groove and improvisation.

Beyond their own recordings, The Meters were highly sought-after session musicians, lending their talents to countless other artists, including Dr. John, Lee Dorsey, and Allen Toussaint. Their contributions helped shape the sound of New Orleans funk, influencing generations of musicians to come.

“Cissy Strut”: An Enduring Groove Today, “Cissy Strut” continues to inspire dancers and musicians worldwide. Its infectious groove and timeless melody have transcended cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences across generations. The song serves as a reminder of the power of music to connect people and bring joy to their lives.

As you listen to “Cissy Strut”, let its irresistible rhythm transport you to a world where worries fade away and all that matters is moving your feet. Embrace the infectious energy, feel the groove pulsate through your body, and celebrate the enduring legacy of The Meters and their groundbreaking funk masterpiece.