Which singer is known as the "Queen of Funk"?
Last updated: February 7, 2025
The 1970s funk scene exploded with iconic performers who revolutionized music with their groundbreaking sounds, fashion, and attitudes. While many artists made their mark during this golden age of funk, one powerhouse vocalist earned the ultimate crown. Who became known worldwide as the "Queen of Funk"?
Which singer is known as the "Queen of Funk"?
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The answer is: Chaka Khan
Funk music found its queen in 1973. Chaka Khan walked onto stage as Rufus's lead singer and the crown fit perfectly. Her voice, raw and powerful and unmistakable, hit listeners right in the chest from the first note of their debut album. On stage, she commanded attention with those flowing caftans, that magnificent hair, and an electric presence that was impossible to ignore.
Her first Grammy came from "Tell Me Something Good," written specifically for her by Stevie Wonder. The song's iconic talk box guitar effect and Khan's raw, energetic vocals created such a unique sound that radio stations played it non-stop. It won the 1975 Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus. The band knew what they had and renamed themselves Rufus featuring Chaka Khan.
Her solo career kicked off with the release of her self-titled album "Chaka," which almost cracked the top 10 on Billboard. Through the late '70s and '80s, she delivered hit after hit, from "I'm Every Woman" to "I Feel For You," the latter earning her a Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance.
Khan went on to dominate both funk and R&B through the decades, racking up ten Grammys and selling over 70 million records. Her influence stretched far beyond funk, with artists from Prince to Mary J. Blige naming her as a major inspiration. Play "I'm Every Woman" today and you'll hear exactly why they crowned her the "Queen of Funk."