What Is Hip?

by Walt Carvalho

Since this is the season of sharing, I thought I would share a story with you.

It’s about being ahead of the curve, as well as providing great value. It’s the ability of  a group of musicians to provide excellence over many years, in a very unique way. It’s the story of a track record of success.

Tower of Power is an American soul and funk band originally from Oakland, California.
The bands roots are traced back forty years to the late sixties, where they also developed their unique rhythm and blues sound. They provided their listeners with a new and dynamic horn section (second to none), a funky driven rhythm duo on electric base and drums and soulful lead vocals.

In 1970 Tower of Power recorded their first album. They were then picked up by a major recording label.

In 1973 their continued success led them to produce their third of many albums. One of the hits on that album titled “Tower of Power” was the song titled “What Is Hip?”. I titled this article not only after the name of this song, but also because of what the title means to me.

It’s ironic that one of their hit songs is based on something short-lived. When you think of terms like; “hip”, “cool”, “tight” and “sick” you think of the era the label is attached to. You think of the time-link in our society.

“Hip” for this band became timeless. I always found it amazing to see them perform while watching along side people in the audience of all ages and musical genres. It was common to see people from the full spectrum of musical tastes and interests enjoying the experience of seeing these musicians perform in person.

It’s always been a treat for me to hear the ‘wall of sound’ Tower of Power’s horn section produced, to feel that funky rhythm of the base and drums, the instrumental layering of the guitar and keyboard, along with the soulful vocals of their lead singer. I guess what makes them “hip” today is the value and energy they bring to every single show.

To leave a show and hear the people of all ages and genres saying: Wow! That was great! Those guys are awesome! That is the creation of value. Value, which has led to long-term success.

Where is value on your priority list?

So thanks to social media, I would like to share one of those performances with you. Here are the sights and sounds of “Tower of Power” performing “What Is Hip?”. Who knows this might be the stepping-stone for you seeing them live on stage one day as well.

Enjoy!

Photo: http://www.behance.net/AndrewLili