The Meters

Largely considered the forefathers of funk, members of The Meters--who are also known by the name the Funky Meters--weren't mainstream phenomenons, but still provided a sturdy foundation for many musicians of the 1960s and 1970s and are still influential today. Starting its career as a backing band for the likes of Dr. John and Lee Dorsey, The Meters went on to release the popular funk singles "Cissy Strut" and "Look-Ka Py Py." After establishing itself as a band able to stand on its own, not just good for backing, The Meters were asked to open for Paul McCartney and tour internationally with The Rolling Stones. Though the band broke up in 1977, dealt with a lengthy lawsuit involving the rights to its music and became involved with side bands, The Meters changed its name to Funky Meters in the late 1990s and have occasionally reunited since then.