Renowned musician, composer, and pianist Tony Marino is back with his highly anticipated 23rd release, The Funk Album, which dropped on May 21, 2025. This vibrant project delivers 11 original compositions that showcase Marino’s lifelong love affair with music while paying tribute to his South Philadelphia roots.
Over the years, Marino has built a reputation as a fearless innovator, blending genres such as Bebop, Brazilian Jazz, Country, Afro-Cuban Jazz, Tango, and Tarantella. With The Funk Album, he dives headfirst into the grooves and rhythms that defined generations of dance floors.
His influences are unmistakable, pulling inspiration from funk pioneers like James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Dr. John, Kool & The Gang, and Rick James. The result is an album that feels both classic and refreshingly modern—a true celebration of the enduring power of funk.
What makes The Funk Album so compelling
is the way each track unfolds like part of a nightclub setlist. The songs are crafted to tell stories of memory, joy, and community. From the irresistible, dance-floor-ready pulse of Would You Like To Dance to the soulful homage Dr. John and the nostalgic East River Drive, every composition reveals another layer of Marino’s artistry. Each song feels alive, as if listeners are transported to a smoky club where the band never misses a beat and the crowd can’t stop moving.
Beyond the grooves, the album reflects Marino’s personal journey. Growing up in South Philadelphia, music was everywhere—from family jam sessions in basements to evenings spent exploring clubs filled with rhythm and soul.
That foundation shaped his career, and The Funk Album feels like both a tribute to the legends who inspired him and a thank-you to the neighborhood that gave him his start.
At its core, The Funk Album is more than music—it’s a statement about joy, resilience, and connection. Funk has always been about bringing people together, and Marino embraces that fully in this project. With dazzling arrangements, heartfelt stories, and infectious rhythms, he reminds listeners that music is not just for the ears, but for the spirit.
As Tony Marino himself puts it:
“Stay kind, stay joyful, and don’t forget to Funk!”
here’s the break down of songs and the story behind them …
1.) Would You Like To Dance – This song is dedicated to the many moments when people have used dancing as an icebreaker to meet someone at a club, party, or other social gathering.
2.) I’m Serious – It means I’m not playing around—things are starting to heat up! (LOL)
3.) Can I Have This Dance – This slow tune creates the perfect moment for people to get close—and maybe even take their relationship to the next level.
4.) The Deptford Tavern – This was a nightclub located in the Deptford Mall in Deptford, NJ. It was a popular spot for people from South Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey to dance, socialize, and meet members of the opposite sex.
5.) Turn It Down – Just as the name suggests, this track sets the mood for slowing things down. It’s perfect for those special moments when you want to get close and share a slow dance.
6.) Dr. John – A heartfelt tribute to one of the most talented and coolest musicians to ever grace this planet: Malcolm John Rebennack Jr., better known as Dr. John.
7.) Wednesday Afternoon – This song captures that midweek feeling—when a tough week starts to lighten up and you realize the weekend is within reach. I’ve always appreciated the relief that Wednesday lunch breaks brought.
8.) East River Drive – This one brings back warm summer memories of family picnics with my parents and sister. We’d head to East River Drive, enjoy the outdoors, and soak in the sounds of Funk, Rock and Roll, and Jazz playing from nearby radios.
9.) Lighten Up – A reminder to pause, breathe, and let go of stress. Life’s too short not to kick back and enjoy the ride.
10.) Let’s Have a Good Time – A celebration of life and a nudge to make time for joy. We all need to embrace more good times. This song is inspired by and dedicated to the legendary Billy Preston.
11.) Cigars in the Garage – Originally featured on one of my earlier albums, this track is dedicated to my dear friend Mel Duncan. Mel had a gift—he could turn his garage into a cigar lounge in mere moments. We fondly remember Mel, his wonderful wife Lori, and their family.