#funkhiphop

A funk-inspired hip-hop single that blends 80s flair with modern swagger.

“Take Me Back,” the new collaboration between Fooly23 and Anthony Levone, feels like a late-night jam session caught between past and present. Drawing from funk, hip-hop, and 80s pop, the track builds on a rhythmic foundation that is both playful and carefully constructed. A crisp drum pattern sets the tone, with a thick snare and punchy kick drum anchoring the groove. A mellow piano line floats over the beat, giving the track a reflective quality that offsets its heavier rhythmic drive.

The production makes clever use of contrast. While the instrumental leans into retro textures, the vocal performances remain firmly rooted in a contemporary style. Every layer, from the groove-driven rhythm section to the atmospheric piano, contributes to the song’s sense of motion. Fooly23’s delivery alternates between melodic hooks and conversational rap cadences, while Anthony Levone’s verse brings in layered wordplay and a smooth sense of confidence. The two trade off with ease, their longtime friendship translating into a natural chemistry that carries the song. The production balances tight, saturated vocals with wide, immersive instrumentation, as the mix feels like the perfect mix of classic and contemporary, bringing in some of the old, but also embracing the new.

Lyrically, “Take Me Back” circles around the idea of capturing a fleeting night and stretching it into something lasting. Images of parties, attraction, and romantic persuasion collide with declarations of loyalty and ambition. Instead of settling on a single theme, the verses allow space for both celebration and earnest words, echoing the tension between surface-level fun and deeper connection.

The undeniable chemistry between Fooly23 and Anthony Levone is central to the track’s energy. Both artists grew up in West Palm Beach, Florida, where music served as a common thread in their friendship. Over time, they pushed each other to refine their craft, shaping a sound that bridges their different strengths. That balance is evident in “Take Me Back,” where Fooly23’s ear for catchy refrains pairs seamlessly with Levone’s lyrical chops.

“Take Me Back” is an outstanding piece of music in how it has a very strong focus on energy and movement, with a positive outlook. For Fooly23 and Anthony Levone, this song is a reflection of their desire to spread good vibes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of genuinely connecting with others, especially in a landscape where hip-hop and pop can sometimes lean into posturing or cynicism, their approach feels refreshingly open. “Take Me Back” does not shy away from romance, playfulness, or sincerity. Instead, it embraces them, framing lightheartedness as a strength rather than a weakness. “Take Me Back” ultimately succeeds because it stays true to the relationship at its core. It is a collaboration between two friends who know each other’s creative instincts, and it channels that bond into something that feels very fresh and spontaneous.

We also had the chance to get an interview segment going! Keep reading for more:

How did the idea for “Take Me Back” first come together, and what inspired its sound? The idea came from just listening to funky 80's type beats and just wanting to create a vibe.

The track blends funk, hip-hop, and 80s pop. What drew you to those influences? We were drew to the songs particular sound just by a desire to sound distinct and create something positive and different what's currently being produced in mainstream music.

You’ve been longtime friends and collaborators. How does that personal connection shape your music? The familiarity from being friends and working with each other for so long helps up when creating because it allows for real honest conversations and a clear understanding of what we both want from the song.

How do you create a balance between melody and hip-hop flow so seamlessly? What's the secret? The balance comes from just having strong influences that do the same and the practice time put in to get comfortable doing it in my own way.

Who are some artists that influenced this track, and how do you make those inspirations your own? The Gap Band honestly, they created tremendously honest and feel good music that lasts the test of time and continues to inspire.