Funky Marys: The Soulful Heart of Modern Funk
Funky Marys is a dynamic American funk and soul band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Minneapolis. The group achieved mainstream recognition with their platinum-certified sophomore album, "Electric Honey," which spawned several charting singles and solidified their reputation for infectious grooves.
Early career
The band formed in 2012 when core members Mary Sullivan (vocals, bass) and James "Keys" Carter (keyboards) began collaborating at community jam sessions. Their self-released 2014 EP, "First Take," caught the attention of independent label Groove Theory Records, which signed the group and released their debut album, "Uptown Revival," in 2016.
Breakthrough
Funky Marys' breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their album "Electric Honey" on Groove Theory Records. The album's lead single, "Get It Right," climbed to number 14 on the Billboard Adult R&B chart and was certified gold, driving the album to eventual platinum status for sales exceeding one million units.
Key tracks
Get It Right — This gold-certified single was the band's first major radio hit and defined their signature blend of classic funk with modern production.
Electric Honey — The album's title track became a fan favorite for its extended instrumental breakdown and showcase of the band's tight musicianship.
Minneapolis Nights — A tribute to their city's musical legacy, this track features a notable guest appearance by saxophonist Mike Phillips.
Keep On Movin' — This later single from their 2021 album "Resilient" highlighted the band's evolving songwriting and earned them a Soul Train Music Award nomination.
The success of "Electric Honey" led to extensive touring and high-profile festival slots. Their 2021 follow-up, "Resilient," debuted at number 3 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and featured collaborations with artists like vocalist Avery Sunshine.
For fans of the Minneapolis sound and modern funk, similar artists include The New Power Generation. They share a commitment to live-band funk instrumentation and energetic performances. Durand Jones & The Indications also explore a similar space, reviving classic soul and funk aesthetics for a contemporary audience. Another parallel can be drawn with Vulfpeck, as both groups emphasize rhythmic precision and a playful, groove-centric approach to music.
The music of Funky Marys maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on adult R&B stations, classic soul channels, and independent music radio stations that champion live-band funk. Their catalog, from early cuts to recent singles, receives consistent airplay across these formats.
Listeners can discover the energetic funk and soul of Funky Marys by tuning into the radio stations featured on our website. Their music is regularly in rotation on various stations available on onairium.com, offering a perfect gateway into their groove-driven discography.
