Pretty Purdie - Soul Drums / Funky Donkey

Year Released: 1967 (2018 Japan reissue)
Genre: Funk / Soul

Description:
“Funky Donkey / Soul Drums” by Pretty Purdie (a.k.a. Bernard “Pretty” Purdie) was originally issued as a 7″ single on the Date label in 1967. This release pairs “Funky Donkey”, a high‑energy instrumental groove known for its punchy drums and funk‑driven rhythm section, with “Soul Drums” which places Purdie’s virtuoso drumming at the centre of a rich, tight funk arrangement.

The single exemplifies the emerging break‑beat and funk movement of the late 1960s: Purdie’s drumming is upfront, driving the rhythm with his signature shuffle and crisp backbeat, while the instrumentation (guitar, horns, organ) supports the groove without overshadowing it. “Funky Donkey” in particular achieved chart recognition—peaking at No. 87 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

For collectors and DJs interested in instrumental funk from this era, this single is a sought‑after example of Purdie’s early leadership work outside his session drummer role. The combination of dance‑floor appeal and instrumental clarity makes it valuable both as a listening piece and a DJ tool.