Women Of The One: Trailblazers of Funk

Panelists: Dawn Silva, Jeanette Washington, Maxi B, Medusa

Organized by Dr. Dawn Norfleet

Saturday, March 9, 2024, 7 p.m.

Winifred Smith Hall

Black women’s voices shaped the archetypal Parliament-Funkadelic sonic brand during its golden decade in the 1970s, but as with Black music in general, women's contributions are rarely acknowledged. "Women Of The One" is an unprecedented panel that brings together some of the "first ladies of funk" to center their narratives and artistry. The event features Black music royalty and foremothers of Afrofuturism, including Dawn Silva and Jeanette Perkins, members of the P-Funk dynasty; Kim “Maxi” Bond of the Mary Jane Girls; and Medusa, a hip-hop cultural icon of the L.A. underground. Moderated by scholar of African American music, Dr. Dawn Norfleet, these women will share their challenges and triumphs through intersectionalities of race, gender, and a notoriously exploitative music industry in journeys that began nearly 50 years before the #metoo movement.

Opening the event is an interview with original Brides of Funkenstein member, Ms. Silva, author of a self-published memoir, The Funk Queen, recounting her tumultuous but inspiring journey through life, love, and notorious touring culture from Sly Stone to the P-Funk collective and beyond.

Learn more about the guest panelists

Major support for this event is provided by the Claire Trevor Society with additional support provided by UCI Illuminations and the Department of Music. 

Discounted Advance Pre-Paid Parking Permits Reserve at least the day before the event.

Free registration required

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