Song of the Day: Nite-Funk - Let Me Be Me

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJ’s think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is “Let Me Be Me” by Nite-Funk from their 2016 self-titled debut EP on Glydezone Recordings.

Nite-Funk - Let Me Be Me (MP3)

LA artsits and masters of funk Nite Jewel (Ramona Gonzalez) and DâM-FunK first teased the idea of a collaboration with a one-off song for XLR8R back in 2009. The track found DâM-FunK offering his vocals over a paranoid array of synths, and showed just how amazing a project between the two could be. Both artists have proven throughout their solo careers that they can expertly navigate the tricky waters of referencing the past without getting trapped in nostalgia through brilliant songwriting and production, giving their music personal voices and avoiding being a novelty reference to funk greats. So when 2016 finally brought a Nite-Funk EP, it was no surprise that the project was well worth the seven-year wait. DâM-FunK cited the setting sun over the LA skyline as inspiration for the project, and one listen through is surely enough to show why the two went with the name Nite-Funk. The music is not only perfect for soundtracking a nighttime cruise backed by a skyline lit horizon, it takes you there. Song of the day "Let Me Be Me" also takes you to the dance floor, providing a shimmering backdrop of synths for Gonzalez's fluid voice to dance through. A DâM-FunK keytar solo takes the song to new heights, escalating the funk to irresistible new levels and making resistance to dance fully futile.

Unfortunately, the group do not have any announced tour dates, but keep an eye on their twitter for possible tour news. In the meantime, check out the video for Nite-Funk's first collaboration, "Am I Gonna Make It," below: