By Eva D. Coleman
Lifestyle & Culture Editor
It was a dark, intimate gathering for the listening party of the latest project by Richard TheoValenti Thomas, known musically as Valenti Funk. Born on Valentine’s Day, it was no surprise that he showed love to everyone that entered the Alamo Drafthouse Theater in Dallas for the private event on Feb. 8, 2024.
“Order whatever you’d like” and “You could have been anywhere tonight; thank you for coming” were phrases often repeated. The southern hospitality of this proud Irving, Texas native was genuine and his desire to accommodate was evident.
“I’m a band nerd,” Valenti shared as he took us through the visual display detailing background information about his life. He shared a young photo of him with bandmates and their drums. He spoke with a rhythm, pulsating and interjecting as his publicist, Leah Frazier, shared her experiences of knowing him and his artistry for a long time. The dialogue between them was erratic and entertaining.
Then, we heard the music.
“When I first started, I always wanted to release on my birthday,” Valenti said. “I like to release on significant dates, period. It’s my birthday, Valentine’s day, perfect. I got a couple of love songs on there.”
Track by track, Valenti shared details of the origin of the song, artists featured and more. As the writer, producer and composer, the album is as varied as his upbeat personality. The body of work has something for everyone. More notable is the feature of local Dallas-Fort Worth artists, including Rakim Al-Jabbaar and 88 Killa, throughout. The final track of the album is actually produced by his friend from sixth grade, Flava Dave, whose dad was their high school band director.
Valenti Funk credits funk music greats for his trajectory. He mentioned James Brown’s iconic influence and that of another favorite artist he’s worked with, Stone Mecca, of whom he gained the opportunity to tour the world as his drummer.
“He’s a vet; he’s been doing it a minute and it was cool working with him.” Valenti said of Stone Mecca. “That was actually my first big tour, with him.”
When asked about his favorite James Brown song…
“Make it Funky; probably Funky Drummer, Open Up the Door I’ll Get it Myself [I Don’t Want Nobody to Give Me Nothing], it’s a lot of them,” he said.
In discussing music from the James Brown era up until today, Valenti shared what’s changed and the importance of evolution.
“Real instruments versus virtual instruments type stuff, it’s a different feel,” Valenti said. “ I’m not hating it. You’ve got to embrace it.”
Valenti’s embrace of local artists, giving them a chance to soar with his project is to be commended. A favorite from the listening party is track number 11, “Say Less.” With Valenti 2, he’s giving listeners more of what’s loved from the past and appreciation of the present.
“Keeping it old school, somewhat authentic; old school without sounding dated is the plan,” Valenti said. “I want you to hear and [think] ‘Oh, that’s an old school feel’ but not like ‘Oh, that sounds old.’ It’s an interesting balance, tight rope.”
Valenti 2 is available on all major streaming platforms.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
