The Meters (later known as The Funky Meters) are an American funk band that emerged from New Orleans in 1965, founded by the powerhouse rhythm section of Zigaboo Modeliste (drums) and George Porter Jr. (bass), alongside Leo Nocentelli (guitar) and Art Neville (keyboards). Though the group recorded and performed primarily from the late 1960s through 1977, their influence extends far beyond their initial run. Beyond their own catalog, The Meters became essential architects of the New Orleans sound, serving as backing musicians for legends including Lee Dorsey, Robert Palmer, Dr. John, and Allen Toussaint — work that would prove instrumental in shaping the broader landscape of funk and soul music.
The band's signature sound is defined by a potent blend of tight melodic grooves and syncopated New Orleans "second line" rhythms, layered beneath highly charged guitar and keyboard riffing that remains immediately recognizable. Their original compositions "Cissy Strut" and "Look-Ka Py Py" stand as considered funk classics, establishing The Meters as originators of the genre alongside James Brown. While mainstream commercial success eluded them during their active years, their innovative approach profoundly influenced both their contemporaries and modern musicians across multiple genres.
The Meters' legacy has only grown stronger with time, culminating in their 2018 presentation with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award — a recognition of their monumental contributions to American music. The band has earned four nominations for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, most recently in 2017, cementing their status as foundational figures in funk history. Their work continues to resonate, serving as a touchstone for artists seeking to understand the deeper roots of rhythm and groove.
