David Garibaldi almost INVENTED Syncopation! Nobody ( in my opinion) has a handle on it like he does; and the ones that do, have STUDIED him INCESSANTLY Dave Weckl to name a great example of one, by his own admission!
Old guy here, been listening to this song since it come out..over and over and over. The part I always look forward to: at the end of the organ solo, when the drummer takes that pause then comes back in on the down beat...my whole body joins in on that down beat. Shoulders lift, little breath in, then jump in on it with them...then the horns come in. Gets me every time.
Another old guy Gary who like you and most here really does appreciate lasting talent and detail. No imposing tech overdubs here, just pure feel and fusion of people who have mastered their instruments and are having a ball. Goose bump time, every time.
The organ solo itself is unbelievable. At the end, that's a 16 bar tonic pedal over an Ab 7sus, and Garibaldi starts syncopating like crazy, but without losing the groove for an instant. The bit I think you're talking about is when he finally resolves to the dominant, and you're right, it's one of the great moments in music history. No-one understands tension and release these days, and these guys were all masters, every one of them. A brilliant, brilliant band!
I saw Tower of Power open for Quincy Jones in Detroit back in 75. Three standing ovations then Q brought out The Brothers Johnson...... That was one gritty ass show!!!!!
I dunno man, Chester Thompson killed it on the keys. But this is like arguing who played better on Zeppelin’s Achilles Last Stand. EVERYONE in this tune is firing on all cylinders, it’s incredible
I played this for my grandson and some of his friends here in 2013, and they were seriously amazed that people could actually play instruments like this!!!!
Drives me wild, has ever since I first heard it in 75. Had to pull the car cover over on I-85 heading back to VA, I just couldn't stop air drumming and playing every instrument. Sat there for 30 minutes playing it over and over.
@@arig0404 ... Great!! That means you have awesome tastes in music. This is considered music for musicians. So you have very complicated audio sensors young lady. Listen to other songs from this highly acclaimed career band. I'm sure you'll become an instant fan.
This was my jam back in the day. Being a trumpet player, the TP horns were top notch. Still love hearing that trumpet on "your still a young man" and the horn section on "what is Hip". Great band from the bay area especially when Lenny Williams was providing lead vocals.
Timeless jazz-funk from the all-time KINGS...then as now and probably forever, no group can touch TOP! Forty years ago, I was Airman First Class King Bee, groovin' to this at Cannon AFB, Clovis NM...anybody else out in Tumbleweed Town with me in 1974-79...give me a shout!
This was the apex of music. 1969, I was a college student in Stockton, California. University of the Pacific held a benefit rock concert as a fundraiser for the new Minority Scholarship Fund. The concert showcased Santana, Tower of Power, Cold Blood, Sons of Champlain, Country Weather, etc. Without a doubt, it was one of the best!
The first time I saw TOP live was in the early 70's. They were second on a bill with Sly and the Family Stone as the headliner. Squib Cakes was the jam that got everyone up and dancing. How good was TOP? So good, I forgot Sly was on next and I was a big Sly fan.
@@Musicfiend4ever I don't know where you are located, but KCSM (91.1) is doing a tribute to TOP today from 2-6 I think Pacific time. KCSM is a jazz station, but the deejay, Chuy Varela, is a big promoter of Bay Area talent like TOP.
This track and "City Country City" by War were to die for. You had to have been at the Loft in NYC back in the late 70's and 80's to see the dancers get off to these tracks. Unbelievable physicality, passion and energy! Never to be equaled on any dance floor. You had to have experienced it for yourself! Only those that we present know what I'm talking about. Auntie Soul, thank you once again. I hope I will meet you one day. You are a true treasure from the UK!
I just saw them perform this tune live about 3 hours ago. Garibaldi is still unbelievable and they are simply a joy to see in person. Go see them any and every chance you get. You'll never be shortchanged.
saw these guys in the New Haven coliseum in the mid 70's . Absolutely set the place on fire. What a great tune from a great band. I don't pay any attention to the R&R hall of fame because whoever picks who gets inducted is clearly sniffing glue and I didn't realize these guys were not in until somebody mentioned that in these comments. If true it's just one more example of how stupid the whole thing is
Greg Adams, from Class of 1970 Westmoor HS. Our rivals "up on the hill" from Jefferson HS. Met Greg when he was still in the Stage Band, playing at the Westlake Shopping Center. We envied their band, cause they were so good and won competitions. I wasn't surprised, when I saw him on TOPs first album.
This is my all time favorite track from any band. It's damned near perfect. It always makes me SOOOOOO happy just to hear the B3 solo on this thing - amazing.
Among the greatest horn ensembles in modern American music, and that includes The JBs, Wonderlove, The Phoenix Horns, Mandrill, Chicago, those guys at Stax Records, Cynthia & Jerry w/Sly, The Crusaders .... did I miss anybody?
it's street ... it's jazz .. it's r&b ... it's soul .... t's call and response .. it's the fortunate combination of the right people in the right place at the right time.... don't question it ... just experience it
My guitar teacher told me about these guys about 4 or 5 years back. I checked them out thought they were decent. Started digging them the more I listened to them and now Rocco Prestia is one of my biggest influences. That man can make any bassist feel like he's a beginner when you listen to him get down.
All I can say is.....WOW!!!!!! Tower of Power.....amazing talent and this song really shows off their musical capabilities. I cannot get enough of this song....it rocks!!! I sure wish new musicians could perform like these great older bands.
the coolest conglomeration of black and white musicians EVER -- then again, when it comes to Tower of Power, you never ever think race - you just think GREAT MUSIC AND GREAT MUSICIANS ... I was a fan when I was in high school, just like the rest of you all. Amazing - the 70s were a great time; so much diverse, cool music ... from the best rock to blues to soul/rnb, to TOP, to JB, to james taylor, to the stones, to the beatles, to wings, to joni Mitchell, to Aretha, Motown, STAX, Ike hayes!
@@oldschoolfunkster1 That's the secret to being a top-tier funk drummer. Being able to stay completely loose & relaxed, no matter how complicated the grooves you're throwing out are. Start to overthink it & you'll start forcing the beat forward (instead of riding right behind it, in the "groove sweet spot") and it'll all start to fall apart really, REALLY quickly. Having that kind of "feel" is something you've either got, or you don't. And boy howdy does Dave got it!
Thanks Nele for sharing this classic. For all you TOP fans out there, if you go to their website, you'll notice that Rocco is not touring with them now ... he needs a kidney, in kinda tuff shape now ... the band is asking for prayers and donations too, if possible. Go to the website, you get more details ... sad stuff. FRANCIS ROCCO PRESTIA is one of my heroes... Great, funky bassman and a super-nice cat. Met him in Pgh, Pa. in 1983 at the Graffiti Club in Oakland (Pa.) on U. of Pitt campus.
I've known him for an extremely long time besides being a stunning musician and a fabulous keyboard player started playing the keyboard at church that's why he was so good with the foot pedals on a Hammond B3 he was doing the baseline with his feet and Rocco was taking a break get from when I first met him always a gentleman probably one of the loveliest intelligent and caring person that you would ever meet on the face of this Earth God bless him
Chester Thompson!! A REAL Hammond player!! Do y'all realize that during the Hammond solo that's just Chester and Mr. Garibaldi! (well there's guitar in there too). Thats 4 limb music right there. Yes that's Chester doing right hand, left hand and bass pedals with expression. Eat your heart out Joey D. It's a sight to behold!!
No matter what version of this song I run into when roaming the web and TH-cam I still love this original cut. When Bruce Conte steps over the horn lines and breaks loose with his solo I break into this big smile, his rhythm counterpoints Rocco's thumping, humping bass. And of course, the horns, love the horns, love this song.
Gotta love the section where it's all Chester and Garibaldi. Chester's got the matchstick in the B3, kicking pedals, and lays down the funk on the clavinet simultaneously (just a wee bit of Conte scratching in the background). It's like James Brown mashed up with Stan Kenton or Woody Herman- this is the funk answer to Basie's "April in Paris" for me. Bless you for sharing AuntieSoul!
I've been listening to this band since probably 1975. There has never been another band in the same league. Their music is the meaning of cookin'... I've been going to see their shows since 1976. Never an off night, never a disappointment. One of the greatest bands of all time, without a doubt
I’ve seen TOP live many times, all superb performances. Never a bad show ! And that 40th anniversary cd/dvd is fantastic. Every musician whoever played with them is on it !
i,ve been playin blues harmonica for 26 years and still hold a good squib cakes jam with this track when Im really feelin it then try and catch my breathe cause Im gettin old
My band All n All opened for TOP in sactown in June of 1982. Lol They were all alive. Chester Thompson on organ. B3 Hammond. With Leslie speakers. Little Mic Gillet and Greg Adams on trumpet. I remember. Lol. It was at the Galatica 2000 on 15th and L street. No one can play and perform like these cats. They will always be..... The Pride of Oakland. !!!!!!!!. By the way. Lenny Picket was and is The Man. !!!!! Signed BILEE KILOWATT 1000 WATTS of Power BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED
Tower of Power was one of my favorite funk groups of all time. Their versatility made them hot in California and then they became hot every where else thereafter. This jam is the bomb! :-)
i was the back line tech on Santana's supernatural tour.....Chester played keys on that tour and i found myself in awwww every single night......he uses two 122's every night and is super loud but it didn't care it was Chester!!!!
Yeah, that guy rocks on that Hammond. I saw a used one for sale for only a $100 at a garage sale including the Leslie. I had the money but not a place to keep it or transport it. I told a friend about it, but it was already sold when we went back. One those almost moments. Story of my life.
I love this song and always have. I hear a lot of "Cissy Strut" in this. Either way it is still one of my all time favorites. Please do not leave any comments about the "Cissy Strut" thing. We all hear music differently and especially musicians (and I am one) so no need for any unnecessary or rude comments to leave here. This is a great piece of music by one my all-time favorite bands, drummer and one the greatest legendary keyboard/organ players ever Chester Thompson.
What in the hell is wrong with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? These guys have been eligible since 1996-WHY are they NOT in there? TOP and Sister Rosetta Tharpe are the two most glaring absences (she should've been an initial 1986 Early Influences Inductee) and they both need to be inducted NOW!!!
You apparently have the grossly mistaken impression that Rock and Roll is not the direct child of Rhythm & Blues, Jazz, C&W with some Big Band/Pop tossed in. Don't get locked into one narrow strain of what deserves induction into the Hall. When The Beatles first hit US shores in 1963, their albums were 50% original songs....the other half were American R&B covers! T of P has a 45-year history of soul ("So Very Hard To Go"), jazz ("Squib Cakes") and funk ("Soul With A Capital S") at the absolute highest levels of musicianship.. certainly worthy of the RRHOF. Lemme see Iron Maiden try "Cold Sweat!" (That's James Brown, so you'll know...I'm sure you didn't.) And my error...it's ROSETTA Tharpe...the first American Guitar Idol! (check her story.)
Dope joint, Jayquan: the Foundation lesson on producer Pumpkin brought me to the recording, I'm still rocking "What is hip" & "Still a young man" now I have another cut to add to my collection.
Funk, Jazz, or Rock and Roll it is a DAM SHAME that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has neglected these guys for so long......C’mon folks, give them their due!!!!!😎😎😎😎😔
Great big giant smile - thanks for uploading... i have this album on CD but always nice to put the headphones on while at my idiot box and absorb this exact vibe! Thank you!
Was watching the Warriors beating Cleveland tonight....and, while commentators were chatting, back from commercial.....I heard Garibaldi's trap and high hat...looked over to my wife...we both said, " Squib Cakes!" at the same time! some sound tech on NBA Playoffs has great music taste! RIP Mick Gillette.
In 1980 I used 29 seconds of Squib Cakes (starting at 1:13) as a bumper in a TV ad for a local banking organization. We shot tape of the bank's annual staff picnic and softball 'game', edited tightly into 4 or 5 funny outtakes and voiced-over with a pitch that the bank's employees were just everyday "Real People".
Michael Bennardo Only drawback from me possibly relocating to Bay,,,I hate the Warriots,liked Rick Barry Phil Smith version,,,don't you realize Connie Hawkins (HOF) would have destroyed Draymond,like bigtime!
I knew I heard it somewhere watching NBA! Yes. They always play amazing jazzy music during offs before commercials.. so perfectly fitting for a game played on hardwood.
Padraic Macnachtan i have and I'm only in my 20's. My dad digs them and we saw them live @ Cape Cod Melody Tent last Saturday! And I got to meet Tom Politzer! quite the hottie! He thought I was only 12! haha
This boys had the best horn section back in the 70's and re still rated with the best. I believe Maceo would agree with that. Is that B-3 kicking or what. He got that leslie pumping
bruce on guitar garibaldi on drums ...rocco on bass this chester on keys emelio, lenny willilans...if lenny would've stayed these cats would be on some earth wind and fire level...they are too me but I mean mainstream...I work w a band called dumpstaphunk,,,,,every time we play it seems someone from TOP is on the side of the stage. I had the honor of working w chester when I was on Santana's supernatural tour and he's such a sweet heart.!! we measured 118 a weight behind his rig. of course he doesn't play that loud all night but sometimes he has that leslie screaming to the point of hurting our ears!!!
@UCAT1IZ6-HPgDPY2ACib4ghg Love Dumpstaphunk. I have a TOP cover band in B'ham, and a 3 hour night of playing this stuff is a workout. Have seen them numerous times, but I regret never seeing them with Lenny. Might try to make a NYC trip when they are at B.B. King's some time. I think Lenny always sits in with them when they are there.
You have to follow this.. I saw them perform this album live at the San Diego Sports Colosseum circa 1972. This is the only version of this song that you need to listen to (but the band is still great. Saw them again in the late 90’s, and they were a very good replacement.) but My friends and I were dancing right up front. At the crescendo, where the Hammond/Leslie end, marquis colored lights went across everything. The mike stands, drums, above the horn section, everything! Then, as the trumpets did their amazing part, the “Back To Oakland” freeway sign unrolled in the back. Perfect
People can say what they like about America (and I'm just as guilty) but truly...THIS IS THE SHIT bros and sistas, Holy God this makes me wanna funk for the joy of being alive...human beings at their finest! LOVE! Thanks USA!
americas greatest contribution to the world in my opinion is the music , funk , soul , blues, jazz , RnB , rock n roll , hiphop because the music came from people under great pressure and those carbon based life forms produce diamonds for the world, straight from outer space
I am a guitarist but have the utmost respect for the B3 because it can play "the world's longest note". This track has the longest note I've ever heard.
Nerding out with ya! My dad's guitarist said he wanted to play Tower of Power. Obviously, the most popular is "What is Hip". I found this on the sidelines of youtube listening to that one. This song is so much more amazing! I sent it to my dad and he was like, "Why aren't we currently playing this PHENOMENAL song?" He's right, as always.
There is so much soul in this. I mean, this is funky anything, but it's almost more soul thank straight funk. I love how even in 1974 they still straddled that original blurred line between the two!
Was sitting in Denton's Paschall Bar just destroying Old Fashioneds when this came on. I jumped up, sat down, turned around, fell on the ground and made everyone stop talking so I could listen to this musical gem. I own BTO on both vinyl and CD. Not a better song exists in the whole wide world. It is loose as a goose and tight as an ass all at the same time.
Listening to it again today I can't help but feel Steely Dan must have been inspired by TOP and thence moved in that direction after Can't Buy a Thrill. Listen to the guitar solo in this, the drums... So Steely Dan-like I had to check the credits
One of the best brass sections around, along with Chicago, Blood Sweat, and Tears 😊 Real music 🎶 Still got that groove and funk... Brovo TP Aloha Kimo 😅 Hawaii Strong 🤙
“That’s Right”..... It Was the ESSENCE BAND, of New Haven, Ct. I was the Keyboard player, but coming up in the Hamilton Street Projects. We went from Basketball Ballers, to The #1 Entertaining Group’s of the “Battle of the Bands”. We Playing this style of music was Pure Funk at it’s best.
I need to check my computer's warranty. My speakers caught on fire while I played this song. Seriously, ladies and germs, whenever my phone gets a text or does some notification thingamajiggie, it plays the last five notes of this jam. The TOP Horns (and Hammond organ) at their best ever.
This is one of 2 cds i brought from a TOWERS record store that was located in The World Trade Center (the other CD escapes me at the time of this comment) , that Sunday morning i was just coming from CLUB SHELTER , walking and talking with ALICIA ( she's on youtube in a few clips of SHELTER and even speaking in one , resident TIMMY REGISFORD gave some dancers and members a chance to say something in the spirit of the Dance , the Music and for Those no longer with US) ........ anyway , this jam just brings back too many great memories of my heavy dancing years, PEACE.
My guitar teacher a few years back introduced me to TOP. It took me awhile to really dig into them, but once I did there was no turning back. I play bass and listening to Rocco get down is just awesome. If you can't get down and dig this music then you might want to check to see if you have a pulse.
![Los Angeles: Critical Mass [Full Album] (1998) Mindspore Records](/img/n.gif)
That drum-intro. Man, David Garibaldi is a monster. One of the best funkdrummers of all time.
David Garibaldi almost INVENTED Syncopation! Nobody ( in my opinion) has a handle on it like he does; and the ones that do, have STUDIED him INCESSANTLY
Dave Weckl to name a great example of one, by his own admission!
Por algo son tower OF power los mejores de su época.
The same on "Release it" by Prince @phillydisco
He's one of Dennis Chambers favorite Drummers. You can hear Garabaldi in his patterns, and fills .
Old guy here, been listening to this song since it come out..over and over and over. The part I always look forward to: at the end of the organ solo, when the drummer takes that pause then comes back in on the down beat...my whole body joins in on that down beat. Shoulders lift, little breath in, then jump in on it with them...then the horns come in. Gets me every time.
Another old guy Gary who like you and most here really does appreciate lasting talent and detail. No imposing tech overdubs here, just pure feel and fusion of people who have mastered their instruments and are having a ball. Goose bump time, every time.
Tower of power should be in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame right now this what Calvin fits you have to say I've been listening to him since 1970
Fir real!
The organ solo itself is unbelievable. At the end, that's a 16 bar tonic pedal over an Ab 7sus, and Garibaldi starts syncopating like crazy, but without losing the groove for an instant. The bit I think you're talking about is when he finally resolves to the dominant, and you're right, it's one of the great moments in music history. No-one understands tension and release these days, and these guys were all masters, every one of them. A brilliant, brilliant band!
Tower of Power one of the greatest ever.
Over 40 years later and this shit’s still fresh.
Fresh SHIT. That's hot.
Great never loses its shine.
I saw Tower of Power open for Quincy Jones in Detroit back in 75. Three standing ovations then Q brought out The Brothers Johnson...... That was one gritty ass show!!!!!
You lucky bastard!
Wow wished i could of been around for that
my friend Chris was at that show...talks about it all the time
Seen T.O.P so many times but would love to be able to see them with Bro. Johnson and Quincy Jones
Wow!! So cool bro!!
Same reaction to this song at age 62 as I had at age 14!!!! Jam on!!
stood the test of time
Nothing to add, when a band like T O P has been playing music, with the same energy and the same musicness for 50 years !!!
RIP Rocco. The most badass bass I ever heard.
Yes Yes! That bassist is the answer man! And this jam? Put it up there with all the baddest funk jams!
Broke my heart his death was barely acknowledged.. his fingerstyle funk was next level.
this is the best jam ever from the tower of power. the drummer takes it all.
David Garibaldi
@@bufordpusser424 Drum sampled by Prince in 'Release it'. Check it out.
I dunno man, Chester Thompson killed it on the keys. But this is like arguing who played better on Zeppelin’s Achilles Last Stand. EVERYONE in this tune is firing on all cylinders, it’s incredible
Guitar and sax are pretty badass too.
The organ player..Chester Thompson..off the chain
That would be a B2 Hammond on a Leslie
@@joelopez5949 *B3
The B2 didn't have this level of percussion.
I played this for my grandson and some of his friends here in 2013, and they were seriously amazed that people could actually play instruments like this!!!!
As a drummer, I used to play portions of this song on my turntable at 16 RPM's trying to decipher the magical licks Garibaldi was laying down.
I just saw them last night in Williamsburg Virginia... Banging!!!!
Never ceases to amaze me. This is a true jam. So much goodness off this one track... *exhales*
Drives me wild, has ever since I first heard it in 75. Had to pull the car cover over on I-85 heading back to VA, I just couldn't stop air drumming and playing every instrument. Sat there for 30 minutes playing it over and over.
for all you young people who want to play an instrument this is what fun hard work sounds like!
Speak! these are real disciplined musicians are work and play here! this aint no bullshit. This band is off the MOFOKIN hook!
Playing in a band like this is something .... Just the brass alone is something. Shame the guitarist shot his brother
@@adamthomas6803 Lol I'm only 16 but I love this type of music.
@@aaronr8169 me too
@@arig0404 ... Great!! That means you have awesome tastes in music. This is considered music for musicians. So you have very complicated audio sensors young lady.
Listen to other songs from this highly acclaimed career band. I'm sure you'll become an instant fan.
Now, this is what I call real Jazz music,truly a product of 70's hard work!
My jazz band teacher played this for me the last week of school..... such a great track. Def a favorite.
Classical Music. One Of The Greatest Compositions.
This was my jam back in the day. Being a trumpet player, the TP horns were top notch. Still love hearing that trumpet on "your still a young man" and the horn section on "what is Hip". Great band from the bay area especially when Lenny Williams was providing lead vocals.
Timeless jazz-funk from the all-time KINGS...then as now and probably forever, no group can touch TOP! Forty years ago, I was Airman First Class King Bee, groovin' to this at Cannon AFB, Clovis NM...anybody else out in Tumbleweed Town with me in 1974-79...give me a shout!
King Bee
Nah, brother but I’m still feeling you. You know what’s up with music! Much respect! 🙏
One of the best little fusions of jazz and soul I have ever heard. The drumming in this song is awesome !
This was the apex of music. 1969, I was a college student in Stockton, California. University of the Pacific held a benefit rock concert as a fundraiser for the new Minority
Scholarship Fund. The concert showcased Santana, Tower of Power, Cold Blood, Sons of Champlain, Country Weather, etc. Without a doubt, it was one of the best!
I just got up to study music at UC Berkeley when this one came out .. man oh man.... did we play this LP to death.. rip in peace Mic Gillette..
Sorry to hear that
The first time I saw TOP live was in the early 70's. They were second on a bill with Sly and the Family Stone as the headliner. Squib Cakes was the jam that got everyone up and dancing. How good was TOP? So good, I forgot Sly was on next and I was a big Sly fan.
You were truly blessed to be there. it was a historic moment in music history.
@@Musicfiend4ever I don't know where you are located, but KCSM (91.1) is doing a tribute to TOP today from 2-6 I think Pacific time. KCSM is a jazz station, but the deejay, Chuy Varela, is a big promoter of Bay Area talent like TOP.
This track and "City Country City" by War were to die for. You had to have been at the Loft in NYC back in the late 70's and 80's to see the dancers get off to these tracks. Unbelievable physicality, passion and energy! Never to be equaled on any dance floor. You had to have experienced it for yourself! Only those that we present know what I'm talking about. Auntie Soul, thank you once again. I hope I will meet you one day. You are a true treasure from the UK!
When David plays this at The LOFT,I LOST IT!
@@remedya.paulin2327
Absolutely! YOU KNOW!
I just saw them perform this tune live about 3 hours ago. Garibaldi is still unbelievable and they are simply a joy to see in person. Go see them any and every chance you get. You'll never be shortchanged.
saw these guys in the New Haven coliseum in the mid 70's . Absolutely set the place on fire. What a great tune from a great band. I don't pay any attention to the R&R hall of fame because whoever picks who gets inducted is clearly sniffing glue and I didn't realize these guys were not in until somebody mentioned that in these comments. If true it's just one more example of how stupid the whole thing is
The greatest instrumental ever. Greg Adams on the horn, garibaldi and Rocco with the funky baseline. The tightest horns ever. Love me some top
Been listening to TOP since early 70's and they still sound fantastic !!!!!!!
I'm with ya Steve. 74' What's a squibb cake, you know?
If you have to ask, you don't know. Squibb cakes=Amaze BALLS. That's all you need to know, bro
@@samjohnson994 "Squib Cakes" was a term that TOP trumpeter Mic Gillette used to describe the backsides of lovely ladies.
superb musicianship, i can't begin tell what how much i learned from listening to bruce conte (the guitarist) whew!
Me, too.
Greg Adams, from Class of 1970 Westmoor HS. Our rivals "up on the hill" from Jefferson HS.
Met Greg when he was still in the Stage Band, playing at the Westlake Shopping Center. We envied their band, cause they were so good and won competitions.
I wasn't surprised, when I saw him on TOPs first album.
One of THE BEST BANDS OF THE SEVENTIES, TOWER OF POWER. SQUIB CAKES!
You could've stopped after 'One of the best bands'...period!
No man; one of the best bands EVER!
WITHOUT QUESTION MY BROTHER!
This is my all time favorite track from any band. It's damned near perfect. It always makes me SOOOOOO happy just to hear the B3 solo on this thing - amazing.
Pure joy! Nothing that comes out today can even touch this! Thank you, TOP!
Among the greatest horn ensembles in modern American music, and that includes The JBs, Wonderlove, The Phoenix Horns, Mandrill, Chicago, those guys at Stax Records, Cynthia & Jerry w/Sly, The Crusaders
.... did I miss anybody?
Barkays
Jerry Hey...and those Seawind horns.....are probably the greatest and Im A big EWF(phenix horns)fan
Brecker Brothers,Kool And The Gang..
Gary Augustus
You know what’s up!
@@Musicfiend4ever Brass Construction,Blood Sweat & Tears
Little Feat
Know how you feel. The Tower is under appreciated today. Even the rock and rollers, like me, where into the Tower that year!
I love the part from 0:00 to 7:42
Hey, that's MY favorite part!
I couldn't agree more !! ☺☺
Good one!
thank u yoda
I Love D.G.'s drum intro. 0-9
intro is THE NATIONAL ANTHEM for drummers! Still part of my warmup routine when practicing.
it's street ... it's jazz .. it's r&b ... it's soul .... t's call and response .. it's the fortunate combination of the right people in the right place at the right time.... don't question it ... just experience it
The ending is the best part!
My guitar teacher told me about these guys about 4 or 5 years back. I checked them out thought they were decent. Started digging them the more I listened to them and now Rocco Prestia is one of my biggest influences. That man can make any bassist feel like he's a beginner when you listen to him get down.
All I can say is.....WOW!!!!!! Tower of Power.....amazing talent and this song really shows off their musical capabilities. I cannot get enough of this song....it rocks!!! I sure wish new musicians could perform like these great older bands.
Squib Cakes is the Ultimate Answer no matter what the Question. Squib Cakes says it all Baby!
the coolest conglomeration of black and white musicians EVER -- then again, when it comes to Tower of Power, you never ever think race - you just think GREAT MUSIC AND GREAT MUSICIANS ... I was a fan when I was in high school, just like the rest of you all. Amazing - the 70s were a great time; so much diverse, cool music ... from the best rock to blues to soul/rnb, to TOP, to JB, to james taylor, to the stones, to the beatles, to wings, to joni Mitchell, to Aretha, Motown, STAX, Ike hayes!
Dave Garibaldi is a monster drummer
Yes, he is a syncopated beast on drums. I saw him live several times & am glad he returned back to pushing the groove with TOP.
Best funk drummer in modern history IMO. And I say that as someone who started drumming about when they could walk.
@tattoo39369yeah, it's a shame they don't play their stuff at all...
@@Cooe. ... And he makes it look so easy too (compared to Cindy Blackman Santana lol). Very chill-laxed style, but MAN!! does he carry a beat!!!
@@oldschoolfunkster1 That's the secret to being a top-tier funk drummer. Being able to stay completely loose & relaxed, no matter how complicated the grooves you're throwing out are. Start to overthink it & you'll start forcing the beat forward (instead of riding right behind it, in the "groove sweet spot") and it'll all start to fall apart really, REALLY quickly. Having that kind of "feel" is something you've either got, or you don't. And boy howdy does Dave got it!
Thanks Nele for sharing this classic. For all you TOP fans out there, if you go to their website, you'll notice that Rocco is not touring with them now ... he needs a kidney, in kinda tuff shape now ... the band is asking for prayers and donations too, if possible. Go to the website, you get more details ... sad stuff. FRANCIS ROCCO PRESTIA is one of my heroes... Great, funky bassman and a super-nice cat. Met him in Pgh, Pa. in 1983 at the Graffiti Club in Oakland (Pa.) on U. of Pitt campus.
This is funkier than funk.
I've known him for an extremely long time besides being a stunning musician and a fabulous keyboard player started playing the keyboard at church that's why he was so good with the foot pedals on a Hammond B3 he was doing the baseline with his feet and Rocco was taking a break get from when I first met him always a gentleman probably one of the loveliest intelligent and caring person that you would ever meet on the face of this Earth God bless him
Chester Thompson!! A REAL Hammond player!! Do y'all realize that during the Hammond solo that's just Chester and Mr. Garibaldi! (well there's guitar in there too). Thats 4 limb music right there. Yes that's Chester doing right hand, left hand and bass pedals with expression. Eat your heart out Joey D. It's a sight to behold!!
David Knight joey d is badass
Takes over the bass with his feet!!
David Knight I am a Rector in the Church of St. Chester Thompson. He is the GOSPEL truth!
Joe d is ok....check out brother jack McDuff
Rocco Prestia is still playing. They just integrate so well you think it's just chester.
No matter what version of this song I run into when roaming the web and TH-cam I still love this original cut. When Bruce Conte steps over the horn lines and breaks loose with his solo I break into this big smile, his rhythm counterpoints Rocco's thumping, humping bass. And of course, the horns, love the horns, love this song.
Gotta love the section where it's all Chester and Garibaldi. Chester's got the matchstick in the B3, kicking pedals, and lays down the funk on the clavinet simultaneously (just a wee bit of Conte scratching in the background). It's like James Brown mashed up with Stan Kenton or Woody Herman- this is the funk answer to Basie's "April in Paris" for me. Bless you for sharing AuntieSoul!
I've been listening to this band since probably 1975. There has never been another band in the same league. Their music is the meaning of cookin'... I've been going to see their shows since 1976. Never an off night, never a disappointment. One of the greatest bands of all time, without a doubt
I’ve seen TOP live many times, all superb performances. Never a bad show ! And that 40th anniversary cd/dvd is fantastic. Every musician whoever played with them is on it !
i,ve been playin blues harmonica for 26 years and still hold a good squib cakes jam with this track when Im really feelin it then try and catch my breathe cause Im gettin old
Man that guitar solo is so good. So tasteful and groovy.
When they get near the end of this track, it just BURNS!
Michael Lanning You should try listening to the start then.
I have more then a hundred times! One of the funkiest tracks ever!
Welcome to the club! I have been listening to this since 1972..and we played some of their songs since....
This bomb dropped in 1974.
My band All n All opened for TOP in sactown in June of 1982. Lol
They were all alive. Chester Thompson on organ. B3 Hammond. With Leslie speakers. Little Mic Gillet and Greg Adams on trumpet. I remember. Lol. It was at the Galatica 2000 on 15th and L street. No one can play and perform like these cats. They will always be..... The Pride of Oakland. !!!!!!!!.
By the way. Lenny Picket was and is The Man. !!!!!
Signed
BILEE KILOWATT
1000 WATTS of Power
BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED
Tower of Power was one of my favorite funk groups of all time. Their versatility made them hot in California and then they became hot every where else thereafter. This jam is the bomb! :-)
I was speechless in `74 when I first heard this....Am still in `23. Ridiculously awesome!
First heard this (nearly) 50 years ago and it still slays me every time I hear it. PERFECTION !
i was the back line tech on Santana's supernatural tour.....Chester played keys on that tour and i found myself in awwww every single night......he uses two 122's every night and is super loud but it didn't care it was Chester!!!!
Your a lucky guy!
Yeah, that guy rocks on that Hammond. I saw a used one for sale for only a $100 at a garage sale including the Leslie. I had the money but not a place to keep it or transport it. I told a friend about it, but it was already sold when we went back. One those almost moments. Story of my life.
I bet....they go for big money man
CHESTER, CHESTER, CHESTER
Oh, you mean Chester Thompson the hottest Hammond B3 organist after Jimmy Smith, right?
I love this song and always have. I hear a lot of "Cissy Strut" in this. Either way it is still one of my all time favorites. Please do not leave any comments about the "Cissy Strut" thing. We all hear music differently and especially musicians (and I am one) so no need for any unnecessary or rude comments to leave here. This is a great piece of music by one my all-time favorite bands, drummer and one the greatest legendary keyboard/organ players ever Chester Thompson.
The Meters...
What in the hell is wrong with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? These guys have been eligible since 1996-WHY are they NOT in there? TOP and Sister Rosetta Tharpe are the two most glaring absences (she should've been an initial 1986 Early Influences Inductee) and they both need to be inducted NOW!!!
King Bee they're not rock and roll. they're more jazz
What is "more jazz"?
i'm just saying there more a jazz band rather than r and r
You apparently have the grossly mistaken impression that Rock and Roll is not the direct child of Rhythm & Blues, Jazz, C&W with some Big Band/Pop tossed in. Don't get locked into one narrow strain of what deserves induction into the Hall. When The Beatles first hit US shores in 1963, their albums were 50% original songs....the other half were American R&B covers! T of P has a 45-year history of soul ("So Very Hard To Go"), jazz ("Squib Cakes") and funk ("Soul With A Capital S") at the absolute highest levels of musicianship.. certainly worthy of the RRHOF. Lemme see Iron Maiden try "Cold Sweat!" (That's James Brown, so you'll know...I'm sure you didn't.) And my error...it's ROSETTA Tharpe...the first American Guitar Idol! (check her story.)
+King Bee oh, it was adopted, lol
A squib cake is a funky cake that lets its backbone slip and puts some dip in its hip
Mike Fields like a shapely woman's butt as she strolls by...paraphrasing TOP organist Chester Thompson.
Mike Fields is it like a clam or crab cake?
+King Bee CEE TEE! YAAHH!
Krystal Harwood "Funky Lenny Pickett's dance to this tune tell the story! SQUIB CAKES!"
CT kicking ass on the sustaining notes!!!!
Dope joint, Jayquan: the Foundation lesson on producer Pumpkin brought me to the recording,
I'm still rocking "What is hip" & "Still a young man" now I have another cut to add to my collection.
Funk, Jazz, or Rock and Roll it is a DAM SHAME that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has neglected these guys for so long......C’mon folks, give them their due!!!!!😎😎😎😎😔
Great big giant smile - thanks for uploading... i have this album on CD but always nice to put the headphones on while at my idiot box and absorb this exact vibe! Thank you!
Best album around. Thank you
Thankyou!! :p
Headphones for The Tower enable you to hear all the amazings things in each recording....simply the best!!!
Glad I got to see Mic Gillette Back in 2009 RIP my friend :) you were the reason I continued to play trumpet !!
Was watching the Warriors beating Cleveland tonight....and, while commentators were chatting, back from commercial.....I heard Garibaldi's trap and high hat...looked over to my wife...we both said, " Squib Cakes!" at the same time! some sound tech on NBA Playoffs has great music taste! RIP Mick Gillette.
In 1980 I used 29 seconds of Squib Cakes (starting at 1:13) as a bumper in a TV ad for a local banking organization. We shot tape of the bank's annual staff picnic and softball 'game', edited tightly into 4 or 5 funny outtakes and voiced-over with a pitch that the bank's employees were just everyday "Real People".
Michael Bennardo Only drawback from me possibly relocating to Bay,,,I hate the Warriots,liked Rick Barry Phil Smith version,,,don't you realize Connie Hawkins (HOF) would have destroyed Draymond,like bigtime!
That's musical harmony !
I knew I heard it somewhere watching NBA! Yes. They always play amazing jazzy music during offs before commercials.. so perfectly fitting for a game played on hardwood.
I used part of this number in a community bank TV ad I produced back in the 1980s in Topeka, KS. Not kidding!
If you've never seen TOP live you haven't lived. In the pocket and over the top with that East Bay stroke!
Padraic Macnachtan i have and I'm only in my 20's. My dad digs them and we saw them live @ Cape Cod Melody Tent last Saturday! And I got to meet Tom Politzer! quite the hottie! He thought I was only 12! haha
But you had to THIS version of the group, I did in a nightclub no less, studio like acoustics, "Bogart's" in Cincinnati circa 1974 OMG!
East Bay Grease Oakland Stroke.
Padraic Macnachtan u righty you are right
Oakland Stroke
This boys had the best horn section back in the 70's and re still rated with the best. I believe Maceo would agree with that. Is that B-3 kicking or what. He got that leslie pumping
chester thompson bro......he is the man!!!!
coley22 tp too (fangirl!!)
bruce on guitar garibaldi on drums ...rocco on bass this chester on keys emelio, lenny willilans...if lenny would've stayed these cats would be on some earth wind and fire level...they are too me but I mean mainstream...I work w a band called dumpstaphunk,,,,,every time we play it seems someone from TOP is on the side of the stage. I had the honor of working w chester when I was on Santana's supernatural tour and he's such a sweet heart.!! we measured 118 a weight behind his rig. of course he doesn't play that loud all night but sometimes he has that leslie screaming to the point of hurting our ears!!!
coley22 I've seen them too many times to count started listening to this as a kid and still play them now I'm 55
@UCAT1IZ6-HPgDPY2ACib4ghg Love Dumpstaphunk. I have a TOP cover band in B'ham, and a 3 hour night of playing this stuff is a workout. Have seen them numerous times, but I regret never seeing them with Lenny. Might try to make a NYC trip when they are at B.B. King's some time. I think Lenny always sits in with them when they are there.
That Guy jam the whole 20 minutes I listen to them in my 20's I'm 65 now and I still listen to them and that song love it❤
You have to follow this.. I saw them perform this album live at the San Diego Sports Colosseum circa 1972. This is the only version of this song that you need to listen to (but the band is still great. Saw them again in the late 90’s, and they were a very good replacement.) but My friends and I were dancing right up front. At the crescendo, where the Hammond/Leslie end, marquis colored lights went across everything. The mike stands, drums, above the horn section, everything! Then, as the trumpets did their amazing part, the “Back To Oakland” freeway sign unrolled in the back. Perfect
People can say what they like about America (and I'm just as guilty) but truly...THIS IS THE SHIT bros and sistas, Holy God this makes me wanna funk for the joy of being alive...human beings at their finest! LOVE! Thanks USA!
The best thing about America is that you can say whatever you like about America.
+Daniel Mocsny I'll funk to that! ;-)
Daniel Mocsny Amen to that bro.
americas greatest contribution to the world in my opinion is the music , funk , soul , blues, jazz , RnB , rock n roll , hiphop because the music came from people under great pressure and those carbon based life forms produce diamonds for the world, straight from outer space
You said what!?
I am a guitarist but have the utmost respect for the B3 because it can play "the world's longest note". This track has the longest note I've ever heard.
Nerding out with ya! My dad's guitarist said he wanted to play Tower of Power. Obviously, the most popular is "What is Hip". I found this on the sidelines of youtube listening to that one. This song is so much more amazing! I sent it to my dad and he was like, "Why aren't we currently playing this PHENOMENAL song?" He's right, as always.
There is so much soul in this. I mean, this is funky anything, but it's almost more soul thank straight funk. I love how even in 1974 they still straddled that original blurred line between the two!
Was sitting in Denton's Paschall Bar just destroying Old Fashioneds when this came on. I jumped up, sat down, turned around, fell on the ground and made everyone stop talking so I could listen to this musical gem. I own BTO on both vinyl and CD. Not a better song exists in the whole wide world. It is loose as a goose and tight as an ass all at the same time.
Listening to it again today I can't help but feel Steely Dan must have been inspired by TOP and thence moved in that direction after Can't Buy a Thrill. Listen to the guitar solo in this, the drums... So Steely Dan-like I had to check the credits
Greatest horn section EVER!!!
HANDS DOWN.🎺🎷
EVER!
Thank you...Sammy Spears and his Orchestra.
Tower of Power, gracias por tu música universal.
Sí claro... verdad!
Just phenomenal.
One of the best brass sections around, along with Chicago, Blood Sweat, and Tears 😊
Real music 🎶
Still got that groove and funk...
Brovo TP
Aloha Kimo 😅
Hawaii Strong 🤙
I've appreciated talented musicians since the late 50s in great jams like this or you musicians in the comments.❤
Simply the best band EVA!
One of the most precise tunes in rock and funk alive. Talk about the foundation! So cool. TOP!!!!
I got to see TP in Sacramento California in 2009. They were awesome! Thanks for posting this.
“That’s Right”..... It Was the ESSENCE BAND, of New Haven, Ct. I was the Keyboard player, but coming up in the Hamilton Street Projects. We went from Basketball Ballers, to The #1 Entertaining Group’s of the “Battle of the Bands”. We Playing this style of music was Pure Funk at it’s best.
Sounds like something I'd hear right before a commercial break when watching an NBA play off game. Amazing.
my favorite thing about the seeing the Warriors on TV is they often use TOP music going to and from commercials
One of the most hardcore funky'est tracks EVER!
I need to check my computer's warranty. My speakers caught on fire while I played this song.
Seriously, ladies and germs, whenever my phone gets a text or does some notification thingamajiggie, it plays the last five notes of this jam. The TOP Horns (and Hammond organ) at their best ever.
The original "the world's most dangerous band"!!!
Amazing musicians!!!
They were so tight, no waste
Don't forget Chester Thompson on the Hammond B3! And Bruce Conte on guitar!
70's BABIES What a era for Music
My favorite band! They inspired me to play the trumpet.
Lived in bay area in the 70s .saw top every chance I got. GodDAMN!
This is one of 2 cds i brought from a TOWERS record store that was located in The World Trade Center (the other CD escapes me at the time of this comment) , that Sunday morning i was just coming from CLUB SHELTER , walking and talking with ALICIA ( she's on youtube in a few clips of SHELTER and even speaking in one , resident TIMMY REGISFORD gave some dancers and members a chance to say something in the spirit of the Dance , the Music and for Those no longer with US) ........ anyway , this jam just brings back too many great memories of my heavy dancing years, PEACE.
My guitar teacher a few years back introduced me to TOP. It took me awhile to really dig into them, but once I did there was no turning back. I play bass and listening to Rocco get down is just awesome. If you can't get down and dig this music then you might want to check to see if you have a pulse.
Don’t forget that solo with the flugelhorn with Greg Adams and Lenny Pickett making his sax sound like a teapot on boil!
It is imperative that I learn that guitar solo before I die.