Cory Wong (born 1985) is an American guitarist and composer widely recognized as a leading figure in contemporary funk music. Known for his innovative rhythm guitar style and dynamic stage presence, Wong has played a pivotal role in preserving the Minneapolis funk tradition. Following Prince’s death, his subsequent solo projects and collaborative endeavors have continued to evolve and extend the legacy of Minneapolis-style funk.
Wong was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Growing up in the Twin Cities, he was immersed in a vibrant musical environment influenced by both rock and jazz. Early exposure to classic jazz records and the energetic strains of punk and alternative rock shaped his diverse musical tastes. While initially playing in punk and rock bands, Wong’s journey led him to embrace the funk genre—an evolution fueled by the rich Minneapolis sound and the influential presence of Prince and his contemporaries.
Wong’s connection to the Minneapolis funk tradition was solidified through his experiences with seasoned local musicians. In 2013, he joined a weekly funk jam at a local venue, where he performed alongside veterans from Prince’s circle. During this period, he had the opportunity to work with musicians such as drummer Michael Bland and bassist Sonny T., whose mentorship provided invaluable insights into the nuances of funk performance. A memorable encounter with Prince himself further affirmed Wong’s unique style. Encouraged to develop a personal sound rather than mimic Prince, Wong embraced a hybrid approach that combined percussive, “chanking” rhythm guitar with elements of punk-rock energy. This moment proved transformative, empowering him to carry forward the Minneapolis funk ethos with authenticity and innovation.
Wong’s career gained wider recognition through his collaboration with the funk ensemble Vulfpeck. After an impromptu jam session in 2013, he was invited to contribute to Vulfpeck’s recordings, and his signature track, aptly titled “Cory Wong,” appeared on their 2016 album The Beautiful Game. Touring extensively with Vulfpeck, Wong’s dynamic guitar work and rhythmic precision quickly became central to the band’s live performances, helping to introduce the Minneapolis funk sound to national and international audiences.
In the wake of Prince’s passing, Wong’s solo career emerged as a beacon for the continuation of the Minneapolis funk legacy. His debut solo album, Cory Wong and the Green Screen Band (2017), marked the beginning of a series of projects that blended classic funk grooves with modern production techniques. Subsequent releases, such as The Optimist (2018) and Motivational Music for the Syncopated Soul (2019), featured collaborations with musicians who had worked closely with Prince, reinforcing the authentic Minneapolis funk sound. By recording live and maintaining strong ties to his hometown, Wong has ensured that the essence of Minneapolis funk remains both vibrant and accessible to new generations.
Central to Wong’s impact is his distinctive guitar technique, characterized by percussive, “chanking” rhythms and a precise, in-the-pocket feel. Drawing inspiration from funk pioneers like Jimmy Nolen and Nile Rodgers, Wong’s approach merges technical virtuosity with a strong sense of groove. His innovative use of modern digital tools—such as signature plugins that replicate his unique tones—demonstrates a sophisticated blend of vintage influences and contemporary technology. This synthesis not only honors the traditional Minneapolis sound but also pushes the boundaries of funk music in today’s digital era.
Beyond his solo work, Wong’s collaborations have broadened the reach of Minneapolis funk. As a key contributor to Vulfpeck and a co-founder of The Fearless Flyers—a funk quartet featuring top-tier musicians—he has helped reinvigorate funk for a modern audience. His partnerships with artists from diverse genres, including smooth jazz saxophonist Dave Koz and late-night band Stay Human, have further underscored his role as a versatile and influential musician. Through these collaborations, Wong has introduced funk’s infectious rhythms and innovative spirit to a wide range of listeners, solidifying his reputation as a contemporary ambassador of the genre.
Cory Wong’s career is a celebration of the enduring power of Minneapolis funk. While deeply rooted in the traditions established by Prince and his peers, Wong continually evolves the genre by integrating elements of punk, jazz, and modern production. His music, characterized by meticulously crafted grooves and a joyful, energetic delivery, bridges the gap between the past and the future of funk. By remaining based in Minneapolis and actively engaging with the local music scene, Wong not only preserves but also reinvents the funk legacy for a new generation of musicians and fans.
Cory Wong’s artistic journey demonstrates a profound commitment to both preserving and advancing the Minneapolis funk tradition. His innovative approach, marked by technical prowess, collaborative spirit, and unwavering dedication to groove, ensures that the vibrant legacy of funk continues to thrive in the modern era. Through his solo projects and partnerships with influential bands like Vulfpeck, Wong has emerged as a definitive torchbearer of Minneapolis funk—an enduring force in the evolution of the genre.