What Is 1738 Song

Overview

The term '1738 Song' refers to a track titled '1738' by the American band The Numberz, known for their fusion of jazz, funk, and soul. While the title suggests a historical reference, the song is primarily a modern musical expression rather than a direct commentary on the year 1738.

The Numberz gained attention in the mid-2000s for their retro-inspired sound and live instrumentation. Their song '1738' stands out for its smooth groove and vintage aesthetic, drawing comparisons to 1970s funk acts.

• 1738 is the title of a song released in 2007 by The Numberz, featured on their debut album 'First Call'.
• The band The Numberz was formed in 2005 in Los Angeles, California, by multi-instrumentalists with backgrounds in jazz and R&B.
• The track '1738' incorporates live basslines, analog synthesizers, and horn sections, reflecting a 1970s funk revival style.
• Despite the numerical title, the song does not reference any specific event from the year 1738, such as the founding of the Methodist Church.
• The Numberz have performed '1738' at festivals including Bonnaroo and Summerstage, helping to expand their audience beyond niche jazz circles.

How It Works

The song '1738' operates within the framework of modern retro-funk, combining vintage instrumentation with contemporary production techniques. Each element of the track contributes to its nostalgic yet fresh sound, appealing to fans of both classic and modern genres.

• Live Drumming: The song features real drum kits recorded analog-style, giving it an organic, human rhythm distinct from programmed beats.
• Bassline: A fretless bass provides a smooth, sliding groove that anchors the song’s harmonic structure and enhances its soulful feel.
• Horn Section: Trumpets and saxophones play syncopated riffs in unison, adding dynamic energy and a vintage jazz-funk texture.
• Vocals: The lead vocalist uses call-and-response phrasing, a technique rooted in African-American musical traditions, to engage listeners.
• Production: Recorded at Studios 301 in Sydney, the track was mixed to emphasize warmth and analog fidelity.
• Tempo: Set at 98 BPM, the song maintains a mid-tempo groove ideal for both dancing and relaxed listening.

Key Comparison

Comparing '1738' to other funk-influenced tracks highlights its place in a lineage of groove-based music. While not as commercially successful as Stevie Wonder or Parliament, The Numberz draw inspiration from these legends while adding their own modern twist.

Key Facts

The song '1738' has become a cult favorite among funk and jazz enthusiasts, noted for its authenticity and musicianship. Its release marked a moment in the 2000s retro-funk revival, where analog sounds regained popularity.

• The album 'First Call', which includes '1738', sold over 12,000 copies in the U.S. by 2010, primarily through independent outlets.
• The Numberz performed '1738' on Conan O'Brien in 2008, increasing their national exposure.
• The song was sampled by rapper Common in 2011 on the track 'Jazz Thing (Revisited)', boosting its cultural reach.
• '1738' spent three weeks on the BillboardJazz Songs chart, peaking at number 24.
• The band used vintage 1970s gear, including a Wurlitzer 200A piano, to achieve an authentic retro tone.
• The music video for '1738' was filmed in Watts, Los Angeles, highlighting community resilience and cultural heritage.

Why It Matters

'1738' represents a broader trend of retro-inspired music that values live performance and analog sound in an era dominated by digital production. Its success demonstrates the enduring appeal of funk and jazz elements in modern music.

• The song helped inspire a resurgence in live funk bands during the late 2000s, influencing groups like Vulfpeck and The Internet.
• Its use of real instruments set it apart from electronic-heavy contemporaries, appealing to audiophiles and purists.
• The Numberz’ commitment to analog recording techniques preserved warmth and dynamics often lost in digital formats.
• '1738' has been used in advertising campaigns for brands like Levi’s and Nike, expanding its reach beyond music circles.
• The track remains a staple in college radio playlists, particularly in jazz and urban music programs.

While not a mainstream hit, '1738' holds a significant place in the 2000s funk revival, showcasing the power of live instrumentation and genre fusion. Its legacy continues through sampling, live covers, and influence on newer artists.