The Funkiest Basslines in R&B History: 19 Timeless Grooves That Still Slap
Radio Facts:
This morning, I found myself reminiscing about the undeniable power of a great bassline — that deep, soulful groove that grabs you and won’t let go. In the world of R&B and funk, the bass isn’t just an instrument—it’s the heartbeat of the track. From smooth vibes to dancefloor anthems, these songs are defined by their infectious low-end rhythms.
Here are my top picks for the best basslines in classic R&B and funk — tracks that prove why bass is king.
1. GQ – “Disco Nights (Rock Freak)”
An undeniable groove from the late ’70s disco era, GQ’s “Disco Nights” delivers a silky bassline that drives the dancefloor. It’s smooth, funky, and impossible not to move to.
2. Kool & The Gang – “Too Hot”
Known for their upbeat jams, Kool & The Gang slowed it down with “Too Hot,” but the bass still shines, giving this ballad a subtle, sultry pulse beneath JT Taylor’s vocals.
3. Bill Withers – “Lovely Day”
While Bill Withers may have joked about his stage presence, no one can deny the magic of “Lovely Day.” The bassline keeps this feel-good anthem grounded while Bill holds that legendary note.
4. Grace Jones – “Pull Up to the Bumper”
Grace Jones’ iconic hit rides on a reggae-infused funk bassline that’s as bold and edgy as she is. A timeless groove that still feels fresh today.
5. Tom Tom Club – “Genius of Love”
A quirky, playful track with a bassline so catchy it’s been sampled countless times in hip-hop and R&B. This one redefined what funky could sound like in the early ’80s.
6. Eddie Kendricks – “Keep on Truckin'”
Eddie Kendricks broke away from The Temptations and delivered this solo smash, powered by a rolling bass groove that kept listeners moving.
7. The Impressions – “Check Out Your Mind”
A psychedelic soul masterpiece, this track’s bassline leads listeners through Curtis Mayfield’s socially conscious vibes with a smooth yet funky undertone.
8. Chic – “Good Times”
Possibly one of the most famous basslines ever, Bernard Edwards’ work on “Good Times” not only defined disco but laid the foundation for early hip-hop (see: “Rapper’s Delight”).
9. Rufus Thomas – “The Breakdown”
A funk classic with a raw, driving bassline that demands attention. Rufus Thomas always knew how to get people dancing, and this track is no exception.
(Watch the video below!)
10. A Taste of Honey – “Boogie Oogie Oogie”
This disco-funk anthem kicks off with a bassline so infectious it practically commands you to hit the dancefloor.
11. Rick James – “You and I”
Before “Super Freak,” Rick James blessed us with “You and I,” a track that oozes funk with a thick, juicy bassline that defined his sound.
12. Dazz Band – “Let It Whip”
A signature ’80s funk groove, “Let It Whip” brings an electrifying bassline that still gets parties started today.
13. Nu Shooz – “I Can’t Wait”
This mid-80s crossover hit combines synth-funk with a bouncy bassline that made it a staple on radio and dancefloors alike.
14. The System – “Don’t Disturb This Groove”
A smooth, electronic R&B gem with a subtle but hypnotic bassline that perfectly complements the song’s mellow vibe.
15. The Pointer Sisters – “Yes We Can Can”
An uplifting anthem driven by a groovy bass that keeps this socially conscious track light, fun, and danceable.
16 & 17. James Brown – “Funky President” & “Sex Machine”
You can’t talk about bass without mentioning the Godfather of Soul. Both tracks feature relentless, funky basslines that became blueprints for funk and hip-hop.
18. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean”
Perhaps the most iconic bassline in pop history, “Billie Jean” is instantly recognizable and still captivates listeners worldwide.
19. Tanya Gardner – “Heartbeat”
A post-disco classic with a deep, pulsing bassline that truly embodies the song’s title. “Heartbeat” remains a favorite for DJs and groove lovers.
Classic Funk & R&B Basslines in Action
Here are a couple of video gems to relive the magic:
1️⃣ Rufus Thomas – “The Breakdown”
Watch on YouTube
2️⃣ Bill Withers – “Lovely Day”
Watch on YouTube
These songs prove that while vocals and melodies may catch your ear, it’s the bassline that captures your soul. Did I miss any of your favorites? Drop a comment and let’s celebrate the grooves that keep us moving!
85% of all of James Brown’s jams!
Kevin- Can’t believe you left out The O’Jay’s “For The Love Of Money”. The creation of that bassline got Randy Jackson his A&R job @ Columbia…
I’ll put in a vote for Chic “Everybody Dance”.
Come on MAN! Does anybody know about “Fantastic Voyage” from Lakeside?!….and I know it’s Jazz but Herbie Hancock’s “Chameleon” had one of the funkiest, most recognizeable Bass lines EVER.
Woah, best bass line and NO Parliament??? Come on now, I could not have been the only funkateer back in the day that’s still listens to the Funk now. Come on now, this is a travesty.
come on…how could you leave out “papa was a rolling stone” by the temptations or “cherish the day” and “ordinary love” by stewart matthewson” or “natural mystic” by bob marley…what about “candy” by cameo?
get with it!
No Motown guys?
What about some classic Jamerson stuff?
“I was made to love her” for starters and I can think about at least 10 more.
What about “Lady Marmalade”?
Best Bernard Edwards line – “I want your Love”
all of them are great…
and what about “Mind Up Tonight” by Melba Moore?
Dude, you gotta to include Is It Love
by Larry Graham & Grand Central Station
And Raphael Saadiq’s Body Parts
Like some one said, no Motown? Marvin Gaye’s ‘Gotta Give It up’ – Jamerson is killing it! Also, believe it or not, DeBarge’s ‘I Like It’ has an awesome bassline that sneaks up on you! Can’t leave out any Chic. Other than those, pretty good list overall.
it must be magic by Teena Marie……