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The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center
is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Funk music.

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Happy Birthday to the legendary Robert Earl Bell, also known as Muhammad Bayyan.

Born on October 8, 1950, in Youngstown, Ohio, the co-founder and bass player of Kool & the Gang has given the world decades of timeless funk, soul, and celebration. Thank you for keeping the groove alive year after year. Drop your favorite Kool and the Gang track in the comments to celebrate.

#RobertKoolBell #KoolAndTheGang #HappyBirthday #FunkLegend #YoungstownOhio thefunkcenter ohio funk funkmusic bassplayer ladiesnight thedaytonsceneradioshow HollywoodSwinging by @thefunkcenter

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6 days ago

🕊️ Rest in Peace to a True R&B Legend 🕊️
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the iconic Freddie Jackson, who went home to rest on October 5, 2026, just days after celebrating his birthday. He was either 69 or 70 years old.

For decades, Freddie’s smooth, unmistakable voice provided the ultimate soundtrack to our love stories, celebrations, and most treasured memories. From "You Are My Lady" to "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)," his timeless classics will continue to live on forever.

The Freddie Jackson Family Official Facebook Page shared a beautiful message thanking the fans who sang along, danced, and felt the magic whenever he took the stage: "You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always."

Please keep his family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

🎵 What is your favorite Freddie Jackson song? Drop your favorite track or a memory in the comments below to honor his incredible legacy. 👇🏾❤️

#FreddieJackson #RIPFreddieJackson #RNBlegend #SoulMusic #YouAreMyLady RockMeTonight
thefunkcenter funk RIP thedaytonsceneradioshow
www.thefunkcenter.org by @thefunkcenter

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9 days ago

Happy Birthday to our Forever Mayor, Rhine McLin! 🎂✨
Today, we are celebrating a true Dayton legend! Rhine served as the 54th Mayor of Dayton, Ohio, and continues to be a driving force in keeping our city's incredible culture alive. Dayton is the undisputed Funk Capital of the World, and Mayor McLin plays a huge role in preserving that legacy as the host of The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center’s video series, Funk Chronicles, streaming right now on our YouTube channel! 🎸🎧

When she isn't sharing the stories of funk royalty, she’s working behind the scenes as the Associate Producer of "The Dayton Scene Radio Show," which you can tune into on all your favorite podcast platforms!🎙️📻

Mayor McLin, we are so grateful for your leadership, your dedication to our community, and your passion for Dayton's musical heritage. Wishing you a phenomenal birthday filled with love, laughter, funk, and excitement! 🥳❤️

Help us wish her a happy birthday in the comments below! 👇

#thefunkcenter #thefunkcapitaloftheworld #funkmusic #happybirthday #daytonohio FunkMuseum MAYOR thedaytonsceneradioshow syndicatedradioshow
mayorofthecityofDayton AfricanAmericanhistory
www.thefunkcenter.org by @thefunkcenter

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13 days ago

🎶 Big shout out to Joe Armstrong and Gene Thomas at Jammin 99.7 FM! 📻✨ In Knoxville, Tennessee.

On behalf of everyone at The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center (TheFunkCenter), we want to say a massive thank you for welcoming us to your station!
Getting a personal tour and diving deep into the rich history of the Legendary Godfather of Soul, James Brown, was an incredible experience. As a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, we truly appreciate everything Jammin 99.7 does for our community.

Thank you both for taking time out of your busy schedules to make this visit happen. Partners like you keep the groove alive! 🎸🔊

Warm Regards,

David R. Webb SR
Founder & CEO, TheFunkCenter
Executive Producer, The Dayton Scene Radio Show

#TheFunkCenter #Jammin997 #JamesBrown #KeepTheFunkAlive #CommunityFirst funkmusic RadioHistory
www.thefunkcenter.org by @thefunkcenter

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14 days ago

Remembering the legendary William Shelby on his birthday.

Today, September 30th, we honor the life and incredible musical legacy of William Shelby (September 30, 1956 – October 26, 2021). As a brilliant vocalist, keyboardist, and songwriter, he helped shape the soundtrack of the funk and R&B eras.

Here are just a few of his incredible career highlights:
Dynasty: He co-founded the iconic 1980s R&B/pop group under Solar Records, delivering unforgettable grooves.

Original Lakeside: He joined his brother’s legendary Dayton funk group, touring the world and bringing massive energy to the stage.

Master Songwriter: He was the creative mind behind timeless classics, co-writing smash hits like "And the Beat Goes On" by The Whispers and "I Can Make You Feel Good" by Shalamar.

William passed away in 2021 at the age of 65 in Arizona, but his music continues to live on and keeps us dancing. Rest in peace, legend.

#WilliamShelby #OriginalLakeside #Dynasty #SolarRecords #FunkLegacies InMemoriam AndTheBeatGoesOn thefunkcenter funkmusic
thedaytonsceneradioshow lakeside daytonohio
www.thefunkcenter.org by @thefunkcenter

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16 days ago

ONLY YOU CAN HELP US BUILD; THE FUNK MUSIC HALL OF FAME & EXHIBITION CENTER (DBA) THE FUNK CENTER!
https://youtube.com/watch?v=2Ubmk-0lvgE&feature=shared

To donate directly to The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center capital campaign and help establish its permanent home, you can submit your contributions through the official avenues established by the organization:

Online Donations: Visit the official website at The Funk Center Website; thefunkcenter.org and navigate to the donation button. Mail-In Donations: You can mail your tax-deductible contributions directly to the organization's P.O. Box: The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center Inc. P.O. Box 26081 Dayton, OH 45426

Merchandise Support: You can also purchase official apparel and gear to support the campaign by visiting
https://thefunkcenter.store (Funk Center SWAG).

Capital Campaign & Project Overview

The campaign funds the revitalization of nearly 20,000 square feet of the former Sears building at the Salem Mall site in Trotwood, Ohio. Led by Founder and CEO David Webb Sr., this project establishes a permanent home to preserve and showcase the rich musical history of legendary southwestern Ohio funk groups, including the Ohio Players, Zapp, Lakeside, and Heatwave. Once completed, the multi-million dollar edifice will feature: An expansive exhibition space for historical artifacts and music memorabilia.

A youth education center with music studios to teach kids instruments and music creation. A cultural hub integrated into Trotwood's mixed-use redevelopment project, which will include an outdoor programming amphitheater, a public food hall, and local marketplace spaces.

For additional inquiries regarding corporate partnerships, advisory board positions, or grant writing support, you can reach out directly via their phone line at (937) 837-4441 or through email at thefunkcenter@gmail.com

#donate #Helpusbuilded #weneedyoursupport #worthycause #thefunkcenter by @thefunkcenter

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20 days ago

We are live; Inside the International Peace Museum with TheFunkCenter are sponsoring a free Funk Line Dance on Courthouse Square in Dayton, Ohio, on September 21st, The 25th Anniversary of the UN's International Day of Peace. Located at 10 North Ludlow, Dayton, OH 45402. by @thefunkcenter

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22 days ago

We are live ; Inside the International Peace Museum with TheFunkCenter are sponsoring a free Funk Line Dance on Courthouse Square in Dayton, Ohio, on September 21st, The 25th Anniversary of the UN's International Day of Peace. Located at 10 North Ludlow, Dayton, OH 45402. by @thefunkcenter

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22 days ago

We are live ; Inside the International Peace Museum with TheFunkCenter are sponsoring a free Funk Line Dance on Courthouse Square in Dayton, Ohio, on September 21st, The 25th Anniversary of the UN's International Day of Peace. Located at 10 North Ludlow, Dayton, OH 45402. by @thefunkcenter

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22 days ago

Happy Birthday to Jerome Benton (born September 19, 1962) is an American musical performer, backup dancer and comedic actor. He can be seen in music videos by Janet Jackson and Prince, but he is known for his association with Morris Day and The Time.

#thefunkmusiccapitaloftheworld #thefunkcenterlogo #funkmusic #happybirthday #thetime thefunkcenter thefunkcapitaloftheworld thefunkmusichalloffame
JeromeBenton minneapolis Prince mirrors
www.thefunkcenter.org by @thefunkcenter

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a month ago

Remembering Fred “Timbales” Lewis: The Percussion Master Who Transformed the Sound of Funk

The world of funk music lost a foundational pillar with the passing of Fred “Timbales” Lewis (February 20, 1951 – September 14, 2023). As an original member of the legendary platinum-selling funk band Lakeside, Lewis was not just a rhythm keeper; he was a sonic architect whose infectious grooves laid the groundwork for some of the most enduring hits of the funk era.

The Spark of a Legend

Fred Lewis joined the band in 1972 during its foundational years, back when the group traveled and performed under the moniker “The Ohio Lakeside Express.” Bringing a deep, innate understanding of rhythm to the ensemble, Lewis was a master of percussion. His command over the timbales, congas, and bongos allowed him to craft a unique, undeniable feel for the funk groove. He possessed a rare ability to translate raw rhythm into a physical, dancing heartbeat, a talent that quickly became a signature element of the band's identity.

Driving the Sonic Voyage

Lewis’s impact on the group's trajectory cannot be overstated. He was the brilliant mastermind and author behind Lakeside’s very first hit record, “It’s All The Way Live.” The track served as the ultimate catalyst for the band, catapulting them into mainstream success and securing them a definitive place in music history.

Following that breakthrough, Lakeside signed with the iconic Solar Records. From the late 1970s until the late 1980s, they dominated the airwaves and dance floors. With Lewis anchoring the rhythm section, the band produced an enviable string of classic funk tracks, including:

"Your Love Is On The One"
"From 9 Until"
"Something About That Woman"
"Fantastic Voyage" — the band's ultimate multi-platinum funk anthem and monster hit.

A Lasting Musical Legacy

Fred “Timbales” Lewis leaves behind a legacy built on impeccable timing, creative vision, and a lifelong dedication to the groove. His contributions helped define the golden age of funk, influencing generations of musicians and dancers who still find themselves moved by his beats. by @thefunkcenter

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a month ago

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE; The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center (DBA TheFunkCenter) pauses to honor the lives lost, the heroes who selflessly faced insurmountable danger, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

From the desk of David R. Webb Sr., Founder and CEO of The Funk Center, comes a powerful reflection on the ability of music to help rebuild, heal, and unite communities—even in the aftermath of unimaginable tragedy.

A Message of Unity from CEO David R. Webb Sr.

“September 11 will forever be of a solemn remembrance of this nation’s deadliest terrorist event reflecting humanity’s worst attribute borne from hatred,” says Webb. “Etched in this horrific event is an emotional reminder that through unity there was an evolution of strength fortified by those brave people who selflessly came together in the face of fear, setting aside their differences, being guided only by the desire to help their neighbor. The fluidity of the human spirit demonstrated by the level of unity became the heartbeat for reviving life to a city so badly damaged but not broken on that dismal day.”

“At The Funk Center, we believe the syncopated rhythms of Funk, the deep soul of R&B, and the raw energy of Rock & Roll all share a common heartbeat. Today, we call on musicians and music lovers around the world to stand united in support of peace, love, and humanity.”

Bridging Genres for Global Peace

Funk has always reflected the community—capturing cultural movements, struggles, victories, and the shared experiences that connect us. On this solemn anniversary, The Funk Center recognizes how the pioneers of Funk, along with their counterparts in R&B and Rock & Roll, have helped bridge cultural divides and bring people together.

The Power of the Groove: From the groundbreaking rhythms of James Brown to the foundational sounds of Southwest Ohio legends such as the Ohio Players, Zapp, Lakeside, and Heatwave, Funk has consistently invited people to the dance floor as equals.

Standing Together: Throughout history, Rock, R&B, and Funk artists have joined forces during times of national crisis. by @thefunkcenter

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a month ago