I had the pleasure of speaking with Danny Thomas, famously known as an original member of Con Funk Shun -- even back when they called themselves Project Soul. We talked about so much! My favorite moments were listening to “Ebony,” his memories on Soul Train, memories performing (last minute) at the record breaking Wattstax concert in 1972 with Rufus Thomas, and when he shared his favorite CFS songs.
A man full of wisdom, he expresses the importance of re-investing in your craft, advice to producers and musicians, and how he takes no credit for his success. We love connections over here, so it was also fascinating to hear about Con Funk Shun’s tie to the Bar-Kays and Sly &The Family Stone's influence as well. Danny also mentioned artists/groups: Jimmy Smith, George Duke, James Brown, Bruno Mars, The Soul Children, Bobby Womack, Emotions, The Staples Singers, Pointer Sisters, Taste Of Honey, David Crawford, Earth Wind & Fire's producer Skip Scarborough, and LTD's Jeffrey Osbourne.
Btw I got the release dates of the Summer of Soul doc and the Wattstax doc mixed up, I'm only 23 years old -- I wasn't there when Wattstax "first came out" lol
Visit Danny's website and purchase his book.
Special thanks to Bryce Jordan for orchestrating this interview, I couldn't have done it without her! Bryce Jordan. Connect with her on Linkedin and through email (itsfrombryce@gmail.com).
Songs mentioned:
Ebony - Project Soul
We're Winners - The Impressions
Funky Chicken - Rufus Thomas
Too Tight (keyboard solo) - Con Funk Shun
I THINK (the bridge) - Tyler, the Creator
So Easy - Con Funk Shun
Indian Summer Love - Con Funk Shun
Ffun - Con Funk Shun [Let Me Put]
Love On Your Mind - Con Funk Shun
Love's Train - Con Funk Shun
Love's Train - Silk Sonic "Love's Train"
Recommended watching: Wattstax Documentary (1973)