Composer

:

Emilio Castillo

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

4:16

"What is Hip" is a funk and soul jazz composition by Emilio Castillo, the saxophonist and founding member of the American band Tower of Power. The song was composed in 1973 and was first released on the band's album "Tower of Power" in the same year. The song became one of the band's most popular and recognizable hits, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song is characterized by its driving funk groove, tight horn arrangements, and catchy vocal hooks. The lyrics of the song are a celebration of the hipness and coolness of the funk and soul music scene of the 1970s. The song features a memorable horn riff that is played throughout the song, as well as a catchy chorus that invites the listener to "tell me, tell me, what is hip?" "What is Hip" is divided into several distinct sections or movements. The song begins with a funky guitar riff and a syncopated drum groove, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The horns then enter with the main riff, which is played in unison. The first verse of the song features a call-and-response between the lead vocalist and the horns, with the horns punctuating the lyrics with short, staccato bursts. The chorus of the song is the most memorable and catchy part of the song, with the horns playing a descending riff that is answered by the vocals. The chorus is repeated several times throughout the song, with each repetition building in intensity and energy. The song also features several instrumental sections, including a saxophone solo by Emilio Castillo and a trumpet solo by Mic Gillette. These solos showcase the virtuosity and improvisational skills of the band's horn section, which was one of the most acclaimed and respected in the funk and soul music scene of the 1970s. Overall, "What is Hip" is a classic example of the funk and soul music of the 1970s, with its tight horn arrangements, catchy vocal hooks, and driving groove. The song has become a staple of the Tower of Power's live shows and remains a beloved and iconic song in the funk and soul music canon.

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