Randy Skinner’s Autonomy is a masterclass in sonic nostalgia, bridging the timeless grooves of the 60s and 70s with a modern touch that feels both refreshing and familiar. Featuring production by the talented Santony “Tony” Williams and iconic contributions from legends like George Clinton, the album captures the essence of a bygone era while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music.

From the opening moments, Autonomy immerses listeners in a soulful journey filled with lush harmonies, dynamic instrumentation, and authentic storytelling. Skinner’s deep connection to the sounds of the 70s—shaped by his experiences in funk bands and the rich Philadelphia International music scene—has profoundly influenced this project. Tracks echo the glory days of funk, soul, and R&B while showcasing a polished production style that embraces both analog warmth and digital clarity.

A Nostalgic Symphony with a Contemporary Spark

The new album Autonomy by Randy Skinner isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s an experience. This album masterfully bridges the gap between the rich sounds of 70s funk and soul with a modern production polish, thanks to the visionary work of Santony Williams. As a producer, Williams takes center stage in crafting this timeless collection, demonstrating an unmatched ability to curate, orchestrate, and elevate music to its highest potential.

The Power of a Producer: Santony “Tony” Williams

Williams is not your typical producer. A skilled keyboardist with an intuitive understanding of harmony and chord progressions, he embodies the essence of what it means to be a true creative director in music. His ability to guide musicians, mold soundscapes, and breathe life into compositions is reminiscent of the legends like Quincy Jones. Williams likens the producer’s role to solving a puzzle—bringing together individual pieces (artists, instruments, and arrangements) to create a cohesive masterpiece.

He doesn’t just create tracks; he orchestrates moments. Whether it’s collaborating with Randy Skinner to balance nostalgia with innovation or allowing each song to find its natural rhythm, Williams ensures every note resonates with purpose. His unique approach—balancing a younger, modern sensibility with a deep respect for the classic funk and soul era—cements his status as a producer who can truly “get out of his own way” and let the music speak.

A Journey Through Autonomy

Before the first 16 bars played, I began screaming, “Yesss! Real music is back!” Randy called while I was listening to his music in my bedroom, watching my light machine reflect visions of looking down from heaven on a rotating earth. I wasn’t trying to be rude, but I humorously and hurriedly rushed him off the phone saying, “Boy, bye! I’m listening to your music.” I hung up and went back to that blissful space and feeling that I was experiencing.

The album opens with infectious grooves that immediately transport the listener to the smoky clubs and vibrant streets of the 70s. Yet, there’s an undeniable modern spark in the arrangements and mixing that feels fresh and exciting. Songs like “Walk Away” (a standout track that leaves you wishing it were longer) showcase Williams’ skill in maintaining balance: honoring the past while pushing boundaries. Other tracks offer lush orchestration and vocal textures that tug at the soul.

Funk Meets Nostalgia: A Breakdown of the Tracks

Each track on this album is a masterpiece, brimming with musical excellence. It’s not just music; it’s an experience that makes you feel free, easy, and undeniably happy. This is pure funk magic, and with George Clinton at the helm, it’s the essence of P-Funk brought to life.

Make It Fun-K

George Clinton is the living embodiment of funk, keeping the groove alive with unparalleled energy. The track embodies everything P-Funk stands for: classic horns, a distinct sound that only George can create, and a vibe that screams “Mr. P-Funk Sound.” Together with Randy Skinner, whose skillset is not only impressive but seems ingrained in his DNA, this partnership sets a groundbreaking standard for future generations. This one-of-a-kind performance brings George Clinton and Randy together for an epic moment in funk history.

This track is a tranquil escape into serenity. It transports you to a space of quiet, blissful peace—a soulful retreat for the mind and spirit. Randy’s sound here feels timeless, offering a sense of calm and reflection that stays with you long after the music fades.

Snazzy Jazzy

“Snazzy Jazzy” is a throwback to carefree summertime afternoons. It evokes memories of teenage adventures, cruising down back roads, and chasing the simple joys of life. For me, it brought back images of driving to the pool at Miss Betty Loper’s house, a slice of nostalgia wrapped in Randy’s smooth, jazzy tones. Philly has T-S-O-P (The Sound of Philadelphia), this track gives us T-S-O-R (The Sound of Randy)—a new sound that defines a new era.

Sharp Skin

This track feels like the soundtrack of an era when Black superheroes graced the big screen. It’s reminiscent of Saturday afternoons spent watching Cleopatra Jones, Foxy Brown, Get Christie Love, Shaft, and Three the Hard Way. It even brings to mind A Low-Down Dirty Shame with Keenen Ivory Wayans and Jada Pinkett Smith. “Sharp Skin” feels like the anthem for my imaginary superhero film, mixing power, funk, and soul into a cinematic groove where my alter ego, the great superhero, Golden BrieZ (The Worlds Sexiest Tomboy) the lyrical assassin from the Philadelphia Super Rap Group, Secret WeaponZ of Mass Construction, reigns supreme.

Spoken

This is baby-making music at its finest—a sultry, sensual vibe that takes you back to those teenage years in the back seat of a car, sharing kisses and stolen moments. Randy’s horns are more than just instruments; they speak with an intimate, soulful voice. His knack for letting his horns convey something profoundly evocative is unmatched.

The Soul of the Party

Autonomy reminds me of afternoon sets at Lincoln University, my hometown teenaged years, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and my first two apartments in West Philly in the 1980s. Back then, we’d gather for Saturday afternoons filled with music, animate discussions, and parties. It’s like Randy has distilled those memories into this music, recreating the joy of sharing life and love through sound.

Turntable Memories

Listening to Randy’s music brought back memories of turntable excellence. In the 70s, two of the top turntables were the Technics SL-1200 and the Pioneer PL-12D. They were iconic, just like this album—a symbol of a bygone era where music connected people and created unforgettable moments. Most of our sets, aka impromptu or planned parties, were filled with lighthearted arguments about which turntable was the best.

A Collaborative Triumph

The partnership between Skinner and Williams exemplifies the power of collaboration. Williams’ background as a keyboardist adds harmonic richness, while his ability to let Skinner’s creativity flourish elevates the album to new heights.

A Funk Revolution: George Clinton and Randy Skinner Unite

When two legends of funk collide, the result is nothing short of monumental. Autonomy by Randy Skinner boasts a historic collaboration with the godfather of funk himself, George Clinton, and the result is pure, unfiltered magic. This partnership between Clinton, the mastermind behind Parliament-Funkadelic, and Skinner, a former member of the iconic collective, is a full-circle moment that bridges eras of funk mastery.

George Clinton is the living embodiment of funk, keeping the groove alive with unparalleled energy. The track “Make it Fun-K” embodies everything P-Funk stands for: classic horns, a distinct sound that only George can create, and a vibe that screams “Mr. P-Funk Sound.” Together with Randy Skinner, whose skillset is not only impressive but seems ingrained in his DNA, this partnership sets a groundbreaking standard for future generations. This one-of-a-kind performance brings George Clinton and Randy Skinner together for an epic moment in funk history.

George Clinton brings his unparalleled charisma and innovative energy, keeping the P-Funk legacy alive and thriving. With his signature horn arrangements, spacey grooves, and infectious rhythms, Randy reminds us why he’s the architect of an entire musical movement. The hook, “Keep the funk alive” proves that funk transcends all cultures and lifestyles and provides the younger generation with a hyped-up P-Funk sound that can’t be duplicated.

Randy Skinner, with his own storied history in Parliament-Funkadelic, steps forward as both a disciple of the funk tradition and a trailblazer in his own right. His playing is dynamic and heartfelt, infused with the raw soul and technical precision that only someone who has lived and breathed funk could deliver. Together, they don’t just make music—they create an event. This isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a funk renaissance, a moment that honors the foundation of funk while catapulting it into the future.

The track “Make It Fun-K” is a shining example of their chemistry. From Clinton’s unmistakable P-Funk essence to Skinner’s electrifying performance, it’s a groove-heavy masterpiece that demands your body move. The classic horns and infectious rhythm feel like stepping into a time machine that’s blasting off into tomorrow. “Make It Fun-K” isn’t just a song—it’s a command to immerse yourself in the groove, let go, and feel the funk in your bones. This collaboration isn’t just about making music; it’s about preserving and innovating the funk legacy for new generations. Clinton and Skinner together redefine what funk can be—raw, refined, and unapologetically funky. This partnership is a testament to the timeless power of funk, proving that its groove will forever reign supreme.

“Keep the Funk Alive!” is not just a mantra—it’s a mission these two legends have embraced with every note.

Capturing Nostalgia and Innovation

Randy Skinner and Santony Williams have created more than just a musical homage to the 70s; they’ve captured its essence while giving it new life. Skinner’s lived experience in funk bands during his youth and his connection to the P-Funk era sound are palpable throughout “Make It Fun-K”. Coupled with Williams’ modern sensibilities and technical brilliance, the album feels like a love letter to the music that shaped generations, reimagined for a new audience.

Dedication

Randy has dedicated Autonomy to the memory of the Alexander Walke, great flute and sax man.

Why Autonomy Matters

In an era where music often feels disposable, Autonomy is a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder of the power of collaboration, the importance of skilled producers, and the magic that happens when musicians truly care about their craft. Santony Williams shines as the architect behind the album, proving that a great producer doesn’t just make beats but shapes legacies.

Autonomy isn’t just music—it’s history, redefined. Listen to it here on Spotify: Randy Skinner | Spotify