FunkSzene

FunkSzene is a term used to describe the community, culture, and ecosystem surrounding funk music within German-speaking countries. It refers to the network of artists, DJs, producers, labels, venues, media, and fans who actively create, promote, and preserve funk and its related styles, such as nu-funk, jazz-funk, and funk-soul.

In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, the scene grew from international funk influences and the broader urban music culture. It has developed through vinyl-focused DJ culture, independent labels, club nights, and live performances featuring horns and rhythm sections. Since the rise of digital distribution and streaming, the scene has grown more interconnected with global funk and related genres, with collaborations across electronic, hip-hop, and modern soul circles. Notable practices include crate-digging for rare grooves, sample-based production, and live sets that emphasize groove, tempo, and feel.

Key components of the FunkSzene include record shops and mail-order catalogs, small and independent labels, radio shows and podcasts, online communities, and venues such as clubs and festivals dedicated to funk, funk-soul, and related styles. The scene values authenticity, vinyl culture, and archival preservation, while also embracing new productions and cross-genre experimentation. Overall, the FunkSzene represents a flexible, locally rooted yet internationally connected subculture centered on funky music and its ongoing evolution.