Rufus Thomas - Funky Hot Grits

Few artists embodied the spirit of funk quite like Rufus Thomas. Known as the "World's Oldest Teenager", Thomas had already established himself as a legendary performer through his work with Stax Records, delivering classics such as Walking the Dog, Do the Funky Chicken and The Breakdown. With Funky Hot Grits, he once again demonstrated his ability to turn a simple groove into an irresistible piece of funk theatre.

Originally released in the early 1970s, this BGP 7-inch reissue presents two excellent examples of Thomas's deep funk period: the energetic title track Funky Hot Grits backed with Give Me The Green Light. Both tracks showcase the distinctive Memphis sound that made Stax recordings so influential—tight rhythm sections, punchy horns, earthy production and a groove that feels built for the dancefloor.

The A-side, Funky Hot Grits, is a masterclass in stripped-back funk. Driven by a relentless drum pattern, deep bass groove and sharp horn punches, the track wastes no time getting into the pocket. Thomas's charismatic vocal delivery adds the personality that separates him from many of his contemporaries; he doesn't simply sing over the groove, he interacts with it, shouting, encouraging and pushing the musicians forward like a bandleader commanding a live audience.

The track also highlights Thomas's connection to the dance culture of the era. Following the success of Do the Funky Chicken, he continued creating records that were not only songs but events—tracks designed around movement, participation and the communal energy of funk clubs and parties. Funky Hot Grits carries that same infectious spirit, with a rhythm that feels instantly familiar despite its raw and unpolished charm.

The B-side, Give Me The Green Light, offers a slightly different flavour while remaining firmly rooted in the Stax funk tradition. With a smoother groove and equally strong rhythmic foundation, it demonstrates Thomas's versatility and the quality of the musicians surrounding him. The arrangement allows the band to stretch out, combining soulful vocals with the tight instrumental interplay that defined Memphis funk.

Part of the appeal of these recordings lies in their influence on later generations of musicians and DJs. Like many Stax and Southern funk recordings, Funky Hot Grits has been embraced by collectors of rare groove, funk 45s and breakbeat culture. The powerful drums, expressive horns and stripped-down production make it exactly the kind of record that DJs seek out for its energy and authenticity.

The BGP reissue is an excellent addition to any funk collection. Rather than focusing only on Rufus Thomas's biggest hits, it shines a light on a deeper cut that captures the raw excitement of his later Stax recordings. It is a reminder that the golden age of funk was not only defined by chart successes but also by the countless grooves created by musicians who understood the power of rhythm.

For vinyl collectors, Funky Hot Grits / Give Me The Green Light is a highly enjoyable 7-inch: a record full of character, attitude and unmistakable Memphis soul. Whether discovered through rare groove DJ culture, a love of Stax Records or simply the search for great funk records, this release proves that Rufus Thomas's music still has the ability to get people moving decades after it was recorded.