Larry Graham is an American bass guitarist, singer, and songwriter, widely recognized as the inventor of the "slap" bass technique, which revolutionized funk music. As a founding member of Sly and the Family Stone and later as the leader of his own band, Graham Central Station, he became one of the most influential bass players in music. His innovations in bass playing have shaped funk, soul, and pop music, influencing generations of musicians.
Larry Graham Career Highlights
1967 Joins Sly and the Family Stone as the bassist, bringing his unique slap bass technique to songs like "Dance to the Music" and "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)," helping to define the sound of funk.
1973 Leaves Sly and the Family Stone to form Graham Central Station, where he blends funk, rock, and soul, releasing hits like "Hair" and "The Jam," and building a loyal fanbase.
1980 Begins a solo career, achieving success with songs like "One in a Million You," which reaches No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcases his smooth vocal style.
1990s Collaborates frequently with Prince, who considers him a major influence. Graham tours with Prince and appears on several of his recordings, strengthening his connection to modern funk.
2000s Continues to perform and tour, often with Graham Central Station, and remains a respected figure in the music industry, known for his pioneering contributions to bass playing.
Larry Graham Band - Collaborations
Sly and the Family Stone Original bassist and key contributor to the band’s sound, using his slap bass technique to add a new dimension to funk.
Graham Central Station Formed and led his own band, which produced hits blending funk, rock, and soul.
Worked closely with Prince, who considered Graham a major influence and collaborator, bridging generations of funk musicians.
Larry Graham Grammy Awards
Larry Graham has not won competitive Grammy Awards. However, his influence in music, particularly in the development of funk bass, has been widely recognized and celebrated.
3 Most Famous Larry Graham Songs
- Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) (with Sly and the Family Stone)
- One in a Million You
- The Jam (with Graham Central Station)
Larry Graham Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
1960s Develops the slap bass technique by accident while trying to compensate for the lack of a drummer, a discovery that would define funk bass playing.
1970s Graham Central Station’s energetic performances and innovative sound help establish funk as a dominant genre, influencing bands like Parliament-Funkadelic.
1990s Forms a close friendship with Prince, who considers him a mentor and incorporates Graham’s bass style into his music, leading to joint performances and collaborations.
Larry Graham ratings
