In the obit section, we are celebrating the life of George “Funky” Brown, the drummer and one of the co-founders of Kool & the Gang, who just died in Los Angeles at age 74. He had been battling lung cancer. When asked to describe his music, he always replied, “the sound of happiness.” Here is a link to “Celebration” on Youtube, which he co-wrote: https://tinyurl.com/ycyuhvk6.

You can decide for yourself how happy it makes you. I have been playing it on a loop, and I am happy! It opens with “Funky” George on the drums – the backbeat is totally infectious. Plus, wait for the “jump, jump, jump” part, on the offbeat: it invites you to participate in the fun, like when watching the Wiggles. But you have my permission to do it as a grownup.

Feel free to check out Jungle Boogie, which he also co-wrote. The band members were from Jersey City and were largely self-taught. I’m for it. Are you happy yet? Sit-down dancing, anyone?