Chocolate Milk

Chocolate Milk is a quintessential New Orleans funk ensemble that bridged the gap between the raw syncopation of The Meters and the polished disco-funk of the late 70s. Formed in 1974, they became the house band for Allen Toussaint’s Sea-Saint Studios, contributing to numerous classic recordings while developing their own signature sound.

Their debut album, 'Action Speaks Louder Than Words' (1975), remains a high-water mark of the genre, blending social consciousness with a sophisticated rhythmic approach. Over their career, they evolved from pure funk into more melodic soul and disco-influenced R&B, reflecting the shifting tastes of the early 80s. Their influence is felt in the way they utilized the 'second-line' New Orleans drumming style within a commercial funk context. Critically, they are revered by crate-diggers and hip-hop producers for their drum breaks and tight horn arrangements. They occupy a vital space in the New Orleans musical lineage, representing the city's transition into the modern R&B era.