Robert Parker / Jesse Gresham Plus 3 - Barefootin' / Shootin' The Grease

Year Released: 1966 / 1972
Genre: R&B / Funk / New Orleans Soul

Description:
“Barefootin’” by Robert Parker is a joyous slice of New Orleans R&B, originally released in 1966 on Nola Records. Driven by a second-line groove, catchy horn riffs, and Parker’s infectious vocal delivery, the song became a top 10 hit on both the R&B and pop charts. It remains one of the quintessential examples of the Crescent City’s upbeat, dance-oriented sound — bridging the gap between early R&B and funk.

On the flip, Jesse Gresham Plus 3’s “Shootin’ The Grease” (1972, Seventy-Seven Records) brings a heavier, instrumental funk punch. Anchored by gritty drums, a walking bassline, and sharp rhythm guitar, it’s pure deep funk gold, tailor-made for rare groove and breakbeat DJs.

“Barefootin’” has been covered and sampled extensively, including by Wilson Pickett, Rufus Thomas, and The Ventures. Its rhythmic DNA influenced early funk artists like The Meters.

“Shootin’ The Grease” became a DJ favorite in the 1990s deep funk scene, appearing on BGP and Funk 45 compilations. Its drum break and horn line have been sampled in underground Hip-Hop, adding to its cult status among beat diggers.

Together, this pairing offers a journey through two eras of southern funk — Parker’s joyous R&B shuffle and Gresham’s raw, percussive groove.