Larry Young
Larry Young
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Larry Young was a renowned American musician, composer, and record producer who is widely known by his stage name The Funky Drummer, a reference to one of his most famous drum patterns.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: December 2, 1940
Died: March 30, 1978 (at the age of 37)
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American musician, composer, and record producer
Early Life and Background
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Larry Young was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As a young man, he began his musical journey as a session drummer for various artists, including Max Roach and Lee Morgan. His passion for music led him to study at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City.
Major Accomplishments
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Young's impressive career saw him release several critically acclaimed albums under his own name, showcasing his versatility on the electric bass guitar, double bass, and drums. Some of his most notable works include Unity, Lawrence "Mr. Unity" Young, and Unity (Part 2).
Notable Works or Actions
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Young's innovative approach to the electric bass paved the way for future musicians. His unique playing style, characterized by intricate melodic lines and percussive effects, influenced a wide range of artists across various genres.
As a composer, Young also contributed significantly to the soundtrack of The Mack, a 1973 crime drama film starring Richard Pryor. The score's fusion of jazz and funk elements not only reflected Young's artistic vision but also became an integral part of the movie's success.
Impact and Legacy
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Larry Young's impact on modern music is undeniable. His bold experimentation with electric bass transformed the instrument into a melodic force, allowing for greater expression and creativity in various musical contexts.
Through his work as a composer and record producer, Young helped shape the sound of 1970s soul and funk. His influence can be heard in artists such as James Brown, The Isley Brothers, and Average White Band.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Larry Young's innovative approach to music, coupled with his early passing at the age of 37, has made him a legendary figure among musicians and fans alike. His impact on the electric bass and funk/soul genres continues to inspire new generations of artists.
As a testament to his enduring legacy, Unity remains one of the most influential albums in jazz-funk history, with its intricate interplay between drums, bass, and keyboards continuing to captivate listeners today.
Young's music transcends genre boundaries, making him an iconic figure in American musical heritage. His groundbreaking work continues to inspire artists across diverse styles, from jazz and funk to rock and pop.
Quotes by Larry Young
He's not a big hitter. He likes to spot the ball to get the winning shot. He's always working and trying his best to do what he can to win the point.
If you sold the market anytime in the last three weeks, you've made a lot of money. You definitely want to book some profits if you haven't already.
I flew airplanes in the Navy and I learned to concentrate and focus out there. When there's bad weather, there are two places to land, on the ship or in the water. So I learned how to concentrate. I took that along with the karate and just tried to learn about the sport.
It really hadn't effected the workshops as a whole as drastically as we had first anticipated.
