About the song
Released in 1990 as the second single from Extreme’s album Pornograffitti, “Get the Funk Out” became one of the band’s most memorable tracks, blending hard rock with a touch of funk, and showcasing their versatility as musicians. Written by Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt, the song is an upbeat, high-energy anthem that captures the essence of funk-infused rock, with its dynamic grooves, tight rhythms, and a sense of bold, unrestrained expression.
The song opens with a funky guitar riff that immediately sets the tone, quickly transitioning into a tight, pulsing bassline. The groove is infectious, pulling the listener into the rhythm before Gary Cherone’s distinctive, energetic vocals come in. His voice, full of intensity and attitude, propels the track forward, as he delivers the song’s playful and confident lyrics. The tight rhythm section, with Pat Badger’s bass and Mike Mangini’s drums, creates the foundation for the song’s funky vibe, allowing the guitar work to shine through while maintaining a tight, solid backbone.
Lyrically, “Get the Funk Out” is a celebratory song about living with confidence and breaking free of expectations. The title itself speaks to the song’s core message: to push boundaries and embrace a lively, carefree attitude. With lyrics like “Get the funk out, get the funk outta here, baby!,” it’s a call to shed inhibitions and embrace the groove, to leave behind any negativity or limitations. The song encourages listeners to let loose, have fun, and embrace the power of music and rhythm as an expression of freedom and individuality.
Musically, “Get the Funk Out” blends hard rock with funk grooves, giving it a unique edge that separates it from other rock anthems of the era. The song’s guitar solos, performed by Nuno Bettencourt, are a standout feature, showcasing his impressive technical skills while maintaining a sense of fluidity and funkiness. His guitar work is a perfect complement to the song’s pulsing rhythms, as he navigates seamlessly between rock riffs and funk licks, creating a sound that’s both aggressive and groovy.
The track’s combination of funk, rock, and metal influences made it a hit with a wide range of audiences, and it became one of the standout tracks on Pornograffitti. While the album was a commercial success, “Get the Funk Out” in particular helped define the band’s eclectic sound, which blended genres and defied musical conventions. The song’s success on rock radio helped Extreme gain a significant following, while its playful energy and infectious rhythm made it a fan favorite.
What makes “Get the Funk Out” so memorable is its sense of fun and swagger. It’s a track that radiates confidence, energy, and a sense of freedom, making it a perfect anthem for anyone looking to break free from constraints and enjoy the moment. The song’s funky groove, combined with its rock edge, made it a standout hit in the early 1990s, and it continues to resonate with fans who appreciate its upbeat vibe and infectious energy.
In the years since its release, “Get the Funk Out” has remained a staple in Extreme’s live shows, where it continues to captivate audiences with its high-energy performance and musical prowess. The song’s combination of rock riffs, funk grooves, and dynamic vocals ensures that it remains one of the band’s most beloved tracks, and it stands as a testament to their ability to experiment with different musical styles while maintaining a sense of bold individuality.
Ultimately, “Get the Funk Out” is a celebration of musical freedom, confidence, and groove. It is a song that invites listeners to embrace the power of music as a form of expression, and to leave behind any negativity or limitations that might hold them back. Its fusion of funk and rock continues to make it a standout anthem that resonates with fans of all genres, ensuring that its infectious energy remains timeless.