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Ode to The Tower of Power -Greatest Funk Band of All Time
Ode to the Tower of Power – The Greatest Funk Band of All Time
The Tower of Power is the greatest funk band of all time. They got their start in Oakland, California in 1968 and have playing funk music ever since. They released over 50 albums and still go on tour everywhere. They have the best horn section in the world. They are my favorite band. Many musicians have played with them over the years. Their greatest hits include the classic make-out song, “You’r Still a Youn Man” and “What is Hip.” They know what hip is.
Enjoy
T
Index
Tower of Power Palindrome
Our Musical Street
"Street Party"
Ode to the Tower of Power
Frank Zappa and Tower of Power Tour Together
Tower of Power Senryu
Tower of Power Palindrome
Music
Soul music
Funky music
The Tower of Power
Fill the air
The Tower of Power
Funky music
Soul music
Music.
Our Musical Street
30 lines
I grew up
In a very creative time
a very musical time.
The 60’s had the best music
Mot ruled the Bay Area
As well as Great rock music
Acid jazz
Acid Rock
Fusion Jazz
The Grateful Dead
Mamas and the Papas
Jefferson Airplane
Jimmy Hendrix
last high school
was Berkeley High School
Santana
And so many others
The best funk band
Of them all
Tower of Power
Beloved by all
High school students.
For their immortal classic
Make out song
You’re still a Young Man.
Tower of Power rocked
Every party in town
On every street.
Music flowed.
On every musical street
In the city.
That was Berkeley
In the 60’s and 70’s.
Tower of Power Senryu
tower of power
the best funk band of all time
they know what is hip
Street Party"
Many years ago
In the Berkeley and Oakland
In the East bay, back in the day
In the fabled 60s, early 70s.
There were often legendary pop-up
Flash mob type impromptu street parties
Where everyone gathered around
Digging the scene and each other.
Drinking, smoking weed
Jiving, flirting, dancing
Getting down to the sweet sound
Of Tower of Power and Motown.
Whites, blacks, Asians, Hispanics
Men, women, and those in-between
Gays, straight
Young, old, middle age
It did not matter
Everything was everything
Everything was cool.
It was all good.
It was all cool back in the day
An interracial gathering
Of shared humanity,
Just celebrating life.
But this was before
Guns became so common
Before things got so violent
And evil s… became the norm
Back in the day
It was a peaceful happening
A true love fest
Those days are so yesterday.
Nowadays, people are afraid
A street party festival
Will end up guns blazing wild west style
The festival will end up with many people
Going to an early grave.
“Ode to the Tower of Power” on FanStory1: This piece celebrates the band’s incredible horn section, guitar players, keyboard players, drummers, and singers. It highlights iconic songs like “What Is Hip?” and “You’re Still a Young Man.”
Ode to the Tower of Power
Ode to the Tower of Power
The greatest funk band
There ever was
You are the epitome
Of funk and soul music
The very definition of funk
Multi-racial
Multi-cultural
Multi-talented
Mutli-gendered
The best horn section
In the universe
Just sublime
Formed in the East Bay
In the turbulent 60s
Playing that funky music
For almost 50 years
Their love song
You’re still a young man
Is perhaps the greatest
make out song
Of all times
The first song
I slowed danced to
Back in high school
A song I played
To seduce my wife
I wonder how many babies
Were conceived because
Of this classic soul song.
Another classic song
What is hip
Which poised
An unanswered question
And inspired this triolet
What is love, tell me if you know
Love is what it is
Do you know what love is, Joe?
What is love, tell me if you know
And how can you make it grow?
Madness is what it does
What is love, tell me if you know
Love is what it is
The tower of Power
No doubt
Will still be playing
That funky music
White boy
A hundred years
From now
For funk
Will never die
For once you get funk
In your soul baby
You can never go back
To boring vanilla
white boy music
because you got soul, now.
Because you got
That soul vaccination baby
And need to go
Down to the night club
And play that funky music
White boy
Until the day you die.
Lyrics
You're still a young man, baby
Whoo-ooh, don't waste your time
You're still a young man, baby
Whoo-ooh, don't waste your timeDown on my knees,
Heart in hand
I was accused of being too young,
But I'm not so youngCan't you understand
That I think like a man?
You're still a young man, baby
Whoo-ooh, don't waste your timeYou're still a young man, baby
Whoo-ooh, don't waste your time
Back once again,
Begging you please
Darling, think twice about me,
'Cause I'm not so bad
I could make you happy,
I'm not a mad lad
(You're too young to love)
If you and I could be together
(You're too young to love)
I'd get to you through any weather
(You're too young to love)
I love you and I love you only
(You're too young to love)
I'd never leave you lonely
You're too young, whoo-ooh,
Don't waste your time
The damage is done,
You'll see that you're wrong
You'll wake up wondering
Just how well I've done
Well, I've done all right
Yes, there are some girls
But you know I'd drop them on sight,
Just for you
Because I love you
You're still a young man, baby
Whoo-ooh, don't waste your time...
Songwriters: Stephen Kupka, Emilio Castillo
For non-commercial use only.
Data from:Musixmatch
What Is Hip?
Song by
So you wanna jump out yo trick bag,
Ease on into a hip bag.
But you ain't just exactly sure what's hip.
So you start to let your hair grow.
Spent big bucks on your wardrobe.
But somehow you know there's much more to the trip.
What is hip? Tell me tell me, if you think ya know.
What is hip? And if you're really hip, the passing years will show,
You into a hip trip, maybe hipper than hip.
But what is hip?
So you became part of the new breed.
Been smoking only the best weed.
Hanging out with so-called hippest set.
Been seen in all the right places,
Seen with just the right faces.
You should be satisfied,
But still it ain't quite right.
What is hip? Tell me tell me if you think you know.
What is hip? And if you're really hip.
The passing years would show,
You into a hip trip, maybe hipper than hip.
What is hip?
Hipness is
what it is!
Hipness is
what it is!
Hipness is
what it is!
Sometimes hipness is what it ain't!
You done went and found you a guru,
In an effort to find you a new you.
And maybe even managed to raise your conscience level.
As you're striving to find the right road,
There's one thing you should know:
What's hip today might become passe'.
What is hip? Tell me tell me if you think you know.
What is hip? And if you're really hip, the passing years would show
That you into a hip trip. Maybe hipper than hip.
WHAT IS HIP?
Think about it y'all!
Co-Pilot provided background information
Tower of Power is an American R&B and funk-based band and horn section, originating in Oakland, California, that has been performing since 19681. The band has had several lead vocalists, the best known being Lenny Williams, who fronted the band between early 1973 and late 1974, the period of their greatest commercial success1. They have had eight songs on the Billboard Hot 100; their highest-charting songs include “You’re Still a Young Man”, “So Very Hard to Go”, “What Is Hip?”, and "Don’t Change Horses (in the Middle of a Stream)"1.
The band was formed by tenor saxophonist/vocalist Emilio Castillo and baritone saxophonist Stephen “Doc” Kupka in 19681. The band’s soul sound appealed to both minority and counterculture listeners1. The band’s name was changed to Tower of Power after they agreed that their original name, The Mots, would not help them play at Bill Graham’s Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco1.
Tower of Power has released 31 albums, including 15 studio albums, 5 live albums, and 11 compilations1. Their most recent album, “Step Up”, was released in 20202.
Here is a list of some of their most popular songs:
“You’re Still a Young Man”
“So Very Hard to Go”
“What Is Hip?”
“Don’t Change Horses (in the Middle of a Stream)”
“Soul Vaccination”
“This Time It’s Real”
“Time Will Tell”
“Only So Much Oil in the Ground”
“Ode to the Tower of Power” on FanStory1: This piece celebrates the band’s incredible horn section, guitar players, keyboard players, drummers, and singers. It highlights iconic songs like “What Is Hip?” and “You’re Still a Young Man.”
What Is Hip Lyrics
[Verse 1]
So ya wanna dump out yo' trick bag
Ease on in a hip thang
But you ain't exactly sure what is hip
So you started to let your hair grow
Spent big bucks on your wardrobe
Somehow, ya know there's much more to the trip
[Chorus]
What is hip?
Tell me, tell me, if you think you know
What is hip?
If you're hip
The question, "Will it show?"
You're into a hip trip
Maybe hipper than hip
What is hip?
[Verse 2]
You became a part of a new breed
Been smoking' only the best weed
Hangin' out with the so-called "Hippie set."
Seen in all the right places
Seen with just the right faces
You should be satisfied, but it ain't quite right
[Chorus]
What is hip?
Tell me, tell me, if you think you know
What is hip?
If you're hip
The question, "Will it show?"
You're into a hip trip
Maybe hipper than hip
What is hip?
[Break]
Come on
[Refrain]
Hipness is. What it is
Hipness is. What it is
Hipness is. What it is
Sometimes hipness is, what it ain't
“A Summer Night to Remember” on FanStory2: This story reminisces about a memorable night and emphasizes the impact of Tower of Power’s music, particularly their best songs.
I hope these are helpful! Do you have any other specific themes or bands you’d like to explore in your writing?
1fanstory.com2fanstory.com3poemhunter.c
Frank Zappa
Frank Zappa was one of my favorite musician of all time. He died way too soon. I would love to have seen him mock Donald Trump. There is no evidence that Frank Zappa and the Tower of Power ever met but if they had it would have been pure musical magic as depicted in the following Ode to both bands.
Frank Zappa and Tower of Power Tour Together
40 lines
When two great artists meet
Magic often happens.
One day back in the day
Frank Zappa met the members
Of the Tower of Power
The greatest funk band
Of all time,
Joe Dassin played the sax
For the Tower of Power
And was a big Zappa fiend.
Toto Cotugno played the drums
For Zappa and was a big
Tower of power fan.
Having grown up
In Berkeley
Grooving to the
Tower of Power
Funk sounds.
Joe and Toto were friends
From back in the day
At Berkeley High School.
Where they got their start
Playing in the BHS jazz band
The best high school jazz band
In the Bay Area.
And one night they decided
To approach the band’s leaders
To propose a joint tour that summer.
To Joe and Toto’s great surprise
Frank Zappa was into
The Tower of Power
And Doc the lead sax player
Was a big Zappa head.
And the tour was on.
It started in late September
During the l’ete indien (the Indian summer)
And ending on New Year’s Eve.
Uniting two
Of the great seminal bands
Of the late 70’s California music scene.
When two great artists meet
and use somewhere in your poem or story:
Joe Dassin
Toto Cotugno
l'été indien (the Indian Summer)
and make your genre: Music
For those who don’t know about these two great bands(that never played together in real life as far as I know), they knew about each other as Tower of Power was based in Oakland, and Zappa was based in LA and they started the same time more or less.
The Berkeley High School Jazz Band was and is one of the best high school Jazz bands in the Bay Area and many musicians got their start playing in the Band including a number of Tower of Power musicians and the Band Green Day.
I asked CO-Pilot for background info:
Tower of Power
please provide background information on the Band Tower of Power including a list of their albums and their musical influences
Sent by Copilot:
Tower of Power is an American R&B and funk band that originated in Oakland, California, in 1968. Known for their powerful horn section and tight rhythm, they have been a significant influence in the genres of soul, funk, and jazz-funk12.
Background
The band was formed by Emilio Castillo and Stephen “Doc” Kupka. Initially called “The Motowns,” they changed their name to Tower of Power to better reflect their unique sound1. Over the years, they have had numerous members, with notable lead vocalists including Lenny Williams, who led the band during their peak commercial success in the early 1970s1.
Musical Influences
Tower of Power’s sound is heavily influenced by artists such as James Brown, Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and Sam Cooke3. Their music blends elements of soul, funk, jazz, and rock, creating a distinctive style that has set them apart from other bands4.
Albums
Here’s a list of some of their notable albums:
1. East Bay Grease (1970)
2. Bump City (1972)
3. Tower of Power (1973)
4. Back to Oakland (1974)
5. Urban Renewal (1975)
6. In the Slot (1975)
7. Ain’t Nothin’ Stoppin’ Us Now (1976)
8. We Came to Play (1978)
9. Back on the Streets (1979)
10. Direct Plus! (1981)
11. Monster on a Leash (1991)
12. T.O.P. (1993)
13. Souled Out (1995)
14. Rhythm & Business (1997)
15. Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live (1999)
16. Oakland Zone (2003)
17. Great American Soulbook (2009)
18. Soul Side of Town (2018)
19. Step Up (2020)
20. 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater, Oakland, CA, June 2018 (2021)5.
Tower of Power continues to perform and record, maintaining their reputation as one of the most dynamic and enduring bands in the funk and soul genres.
Do you have a favorite Tower of Power song or album? 🎷🎺
1: Wikipedia 2: AllMusic 3: Off The Leash 4: Tower of Power Official Site 5: Bing Search
1en.wikipedia.org2allmusic.com3offtheleash.band4towerofpower.com5bing.com6billboard.com7genius.com8en.wikipedia.org9allaboutjazz.com10discogs.com11genius.com12gettyimages.com+7 more
. Tower of Power is an American R&B and funk band that originated in Oakland, California, in 1968. Known for their powerful horn section and tight rhythm, they have been a significant influence in the genres of soul, funk, and jazz-funk.
Background
The band was formed by Emilio Castillo and Stephen "Doc" Kupka. Initially called "The Motowns," they changed their name to Tower of Power to better reflect their unique sound. Over the years, they have had numerous members, with notable lead vocalists including Lenny Williams, who led the band during their peak commercial success in the early 1970s.
Musical Influences
Tower of Power's sound is heavily influenced by artists such as James Brown, Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and Sam Cooke. Their music blends elements of soul, funk, jazz, and rock, creating a distinctive style that has set them apart from other bands.
Albums
Here's a list of some of their notable albums:
1. East Bay Grease (1970)
2. Bump City (1972) My favorite
3. Tower of Power (1973)
4. Back to Oakland (1974)
5. Urban Renewal (1975)
6. In the Slot (1975)
7. Ain't Nothin' Stoppin' Us Now (1976)
8. We Came to Play (1978)
9. Back on the Streets (1979)
10. Direct Plus! (1981)
11. Monster on a Leash (1991)
12. T.O.P. (1993)
13. Souled Out (1995)
14. Rhythm & Business (1997)
15. Soul Vaccination: Tower of Power Live (1999)
16. Oakland Zone (2003)
17. Great American Soulbook (2009)
18. Soul Side of Town (2018)
19. Step Up (2020)
20. 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater, Oakland, CA, June 2018 (2021).
Tower of Power continues to perform and record, maintaining their reputation as one of the most dynamic and enduring bands in the funk and soul genres.
: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_Power)
: [AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/tower-of-power-mn0000013393)
: [Off The Leash](https://www.offtheleash.band/about-tower-of-power)
: [Tower of Power Official Site](https://towerofpower.com/tower-of-power-discography)
: [Bing Search](https://bing.com/search?q=Tower+of+Power+albums) Message has links.
:
please provide background info on the musciain Frank Zappa including listing all of his albums
Frank Zappa was an American musician, composer, and bandleader known for his eclectic and innovative approach to music. Born on December 21, 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland, Zappa’s career spanned more than three decades until his death on December 4, 19931.
Background
Zappa was largely self-taught and drew from a wide range of musical influences, including 20th-century classical composers like Edgard Varèse, Igor Stravinsky, and Pierre Boulez, as well as rhythm and blues, doo-wop, and jazz23. He was known for his satirical lyrics, complex compositions, and virtuosic guitar playing. Zappa’s work often challenged societal norms and pushed the boundaries of conventional music genres1.
Musical Influences
Zappa’s influences were incredibly diverse. He was deeply inspired by avant-garde classical composers, particularly Edgard Varèse, whose work had a profound impact on Zappa’s musical direction2. He also drew from the rich traditions of R&B and doo-wop, which can be heard in his early recordings with The Mothers of Invention3.
Albums
Frank Zappa was extraordinarily prolific, releasing 62 albums during his lifetime and an additional 67 posthumous albums, making a total of 129 albums as of June 202445. Here is a selection of some of his notable albums:
1. Freak Out! (1966) - with The Mothers of Invention
2. Absolutely Free (1967) - with The Mothers of Invention
3. We’re Only in It for the Money (1968) - with The Mothers of Invention My favorite of his albums.
4. Hot Rats (1969)
5. Over-Nite Sensation (1973)
6. Apostrophe (') (1974)
7. One Size Fits All (1975) - with The Mothers of Invention
8. Zoot Allures (1976)
9. Sheik Yerbouti (1979)
10. Joe’s Garage (1979)
11. Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar (1981)
12. You Are What You Is (1981)
13. Ship Arriving Too Late to Save a Drowning Witch (1982)
14. The Man from Utopia (1983)
15. Jazz from Hell (1986)
16. Broadway the Hard Way (1988)
17. The Yellow Shark (1993)
18. Civilization Phaze III (1994) - posthumous
19. The Lost Episodes (1996) - posthumous
20. Funky Nothingness (2023) - posthumous
Zappa’s discography is vast and varied, reflecting his relentless creativity and willingness to explore different musical landscapes.
4: Wikipedia 1: Britannica 5: Bing Search 2: WRTI 3: Wikipedia
1britannica.com2wrti.org3en.wikipedia.org4en.wikipedia.org5bing.com6discogs.com7wikiwand.com8loudersound.com9famouscomposers.net10guitarworld.com11gettyimages.com+6 more
It seems there isn't much documented evidence of direct collaboration or touring between Tower of Power and Frank Zappa. However, there are a few interesting connections:
1. Frank Zappa's Song "Bobby Brown": In an interview, Zappa mentioned a device called the "Tower of Power" in the context of explaining the lyrics to his song "Bobby Brown". This reference is unrelated to the band but shows Zappa's playful use of language and cultural references.
2. Radio Shows and Tributes: Both Tower of Power and Frank Zappa have been featured in various radio shows and tributes. For instance, a radio show called "Notes from the Jazz Underground" spotlighted both Zappa and Tower of Power in separate segments, highlighting their influential music.
While they may not have worked together directly, both Tower of Power and Frank Zappa have left a significant mark on the music world with their innovative styles and contributions.
It's great to hear you're a fan of both! Do you have a favorite album or song from either artist? 🎷🎸
: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/Music/comments/ahkkz/frank_zappa_explains_the_lyrics_to...)
: [NorCal Public Media](https://norcalpublicmedia.org/notes-from-the-jazz-underground/vintage-zappa-and-...) Message has links.
tell me about the Berkeley High School Jazz band and what famous musicians got their start playing in that band
The Berkeley High School Jazz Band is renowned for its rich history and significant contributions to the jazz world. The program has been a breeding ground for many prominent musicians, thanks to its strong emphasis on musical excellence and innovation.
Background
The jazz program at Berkeley High School began to take shape in the 1950s and 1960s under the direction of educators like Bob Lutt and Phil Hardymon1. The program gained further prominence with the support of Dr. Herb Wong, a jazz aficionado and educator who integrated jazz into the school’s curriculum1. Over the years, the program has continued to thrive, producing some of the best musicians in the jazz world.
Notable Alumni
Many famous musicians got their start in the Berkeley High School Jazz Band, including:
Jim Davidson - my friend.
• Joshua Redman: A celebrated saxophonist and bandleader, Redman is known for his improvisational skills and has released numerous acclaimed albums2.
• Steven Bernstein: A talented trumpeter and bandleader, Bernstein has worked with a variety of artists and leads the band Sexmob2.
• Benny Green: A renowned jazz pianist, Green has played with legends like Art Blakey and Betty Carter and has a successful solo career2.
• Peter Apfelbaum: A multi-instrumentalist and composer, Apfelbaum formed the Hieroglyphics Ensemble while still at Berkeley High3.
• Craig Handy: A respected saxophonist, Handy has performed with the Mingus Big Band and other notable jazz ensembles2.
The Berkeley High School Jazz Band continues to be a significant force in jazz education, inspiring young musicians and contributing to the vibrant jazz community.
1: BHS Jazz History 2: San Francisco Classical Voice 3: BHS Jazz Alumni
1bhsjazz.org2sfcv.org3bhsjazz.org
Green Day
Green Day is an American punk rock band formed in 1987 in Rodeo, California, by lead vocalist and guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong and bassist Mike Dirnt. Drummer Tré Cool joined the band in 1990, solidifying the lineup that has remained largely unchanged1.
Background
Green Day emerged from the East Bay punk scene, particularly the 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, California1. They initially performed under the name “Sweet Children” before changing to Green Day. Their early work was released through the independent label Lookout! Records, with their debut album 39/Smooth coming out in 19901.
Breakthrough and Success
The band’s major breakthrough came with their third album, Dookie (1994), released through Reprise Records. The album was a massive success, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. and bringing punk rock into the mainstream1. Following this, albums like Insomniac (1995), Nimrod (1997), and Warning (2000) continued to build their reputation, though they didn’t match the commercial success of Dookie1.
In 2004, Green Day released American Idiot, a rock opera that resonated with a younger generation and sold six million copies in the U.S. The album’s success led to a Broadway adaptation, which won two Tony Awards1.
Recent Work
Green Day has continued to release music and tour extensively. Their recent albums include Revolution Radio (2016), Father of All Motherfuckers (2020), and Saviors (2024)1. The band remains influential in the punk rock genre and continues to attract a dedicated fan base.
Side Projects
Members of Green Day have also been involved in various side projects, including Pinhead Gunpowder, The Network, Foxboro Hot Tubs, The Longshot, and The Coverups1.
Notable Albums
Here are some of their key albums:
1. 39/Smooth (1990)
2. Kerplunk (1991)
3. Dookie (1994)
4. Insomniac (1995)
5. Nimrod (1997)
6. Warning (2000)
7. American Idiot (2004)
8. 21st Century Breakdown (2009)
9. ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tré! (2012)
10. Revolution Radio (2016)
11. Father of All Motherfuckers (2020)
12. Saviors (2024)1.
Green Day’s energetic performances and socially conscious lyrics have made them a staple in the punk rock scene for over three decades.
1: Wikipedia
1en.wikipedia.org2news.yahoo.com3eastbaytimes.com4mynorthwest.com5greenday.com6greenday.fandom.com+2 more
Did the muscian Jimmi Hendrix attend Berkeley High School?
No, Jimi Hendrix did not attend Berkeley High School. He was born in Seattle, Washington, and attended several schools there, including Washington Junior High School and Garfield High School12. Hendrix dropped out of high school and later enlisted in the U.S. Army before pursuing his music career1.
However, Hendrix did perform in Berkeley, California. One of his notable performances was at the Berkeley Community Theatre on May 30, 1970, which was recorded and released as the live album "Live at Berkeley"34.
Is there anything else you’d like to know about Jimi Hendrix or his music? 🎸
1: IMDb 2: The Famous People 3: Wikipedia 4: Jimi Hendrix Official Site
1imdb.com2thefamouspeople.com3en.wikipedia.org4jimihendrix.com5youtube.com6youtube.com7youtube.com8youtube.com9archive.seattletimes.com10jimihendrix.com11smarturl.it12smarturl.it13smarturl.it14smarturl.it15jimihendrix.com16vimeo.com17theaters.berkeleyschools.net18gettyimages.com+14 more
thanks for that. According to my sources, Jimmi Hendrix may have attended Berkeley High School in the 10th grade or so before dropping out and joining the US Army band where he played in clubs in Germany
It’s interesting to hear about different accounts regarding Jimi Hendrix’s early life. While most sources indicate that Hendrix primarily attended schools in Seattle, it’s possible there are lesser-known anecdotes or local stories about his time in Berkeley. Hendrix’s life was indeed full of movement and varied experiences, which sometimes leads to different interpretations of his early years.
After leaving high school, Hendrix did join the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He formed a band called The King Kasuals and played in clubs around the base and later in Germany.
If you have any specific sources or stories about Hendrix’s time in Berkeley, I’d love to hear more about them! 🎸
: IMDb : The Famous People
Substack
https://open.substack.com/pub/jakecosmosaller/p/ode-to-the-tower-of-power?r=3i9lm&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
