The Incredible Bongo Band emerged in 1972 as a collaborative project between record executive Michael Viner and arranger Perry Botkin Jr., crafting infectious instrumental funk that would become foundational to hip-hop culture. Originally conceived to supplement the soundtrack for *The Thing With Two Heads*, the group developed a signature sound built on prominent bongo and conga percussion layered with rock drums and brass arrangements, transforming popular songs of the era into energetic, rhythmically complex compositions.
The band's impact extended far beyond their original output—their breakbeat-heavy tracks, particularly "Apache," became essential samples in early hip-hop production and continue to define the sound of countless tracks across electronic and dance music. Their funky, percussion-driven approach bridged traditional world music elements with contemporary funk, establishing a template that influenced generations of producers and DJs seeking organic, groove-oriented breaks for remixing and sampling.