The Headhunters

By Lawrence Peryer | Spotlight On
November 26, 2022
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We’re not in a gym, this isn’t a competition… this is art. What Bill and I and The Headhunters do is experience the moment and explore. After the count, we’re in that moment, and there is no other. This is an act of passion, of love for humanity, and for our planet.
—Mike Clark

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Back in the early '70s, drummer Mike Clark and bassist Paul Jackson were best friends living in East Oakland, playing flatbed gigs at Black Panther rallies, and generally raising hell. Cooking was not their forte, so the barbecue joint next door became a hangout. Mrs. Jones (of Everett and Jones) asked them to write a song to promote the spot, and they came up with the first version of "God Made Me Funky." Bill Summers worked with Jackson at the local record store, and he jumped at an opportunity to open a show for Herbie Hancock in the Bay Area. He got the call to audition for Herbie's band, joining Herbie for the album Headhunters (Columbia Records) and many more. Mike and Bill talk about the latest Headhunters release, Speakers in the House (Ropeadope Records/Devil Hills Entertainment) and a whole lot more.

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