Through his tenure as bassist for Sly & the Family Stone, Rustee Allen has solidified his place in Funky Soul history, with standout work on such pivotal releases as Fresh and Small Talk, including his breakout performance on “In Time.” 

Rustee honored us with his presence, sitting down for a deep dive into his career and discography, from back in the day to right about now.

In this must-listen interview, Mr. Allen raps about his days under the tutelage of Johnny Talbot, his work with/love for Sly, Freddie, Rose, and the rest of the Fam Stone, and what REALLY went down with the Sly tribute at the Grammy Awards. 

Rustee also chops it up about working with George Clinton for his new album Simple Rules, touring and recording with Robin Trower, and laying tracks for the Temptations —not to mention hanging with Miles.

Produced & Hosted by Ace Alan
Cohosted by Jay Stone
Website & Art by 3chards
Recorded at Live Oak Studio in Berkeley, CA, with thanks to Priscilla Rice
Engineered by James Ward
Executive Produced by Roger Bussell

Intro & Outro tracks are new music by the Funkanauts, “I Can Never Be” & “He Talkin’ Bout This” respectively, both from the upcoming album, Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.

This episode is dedicated in loving memory to Zac Scott.

Psst! Editor’s Notes: Ace says the Sly tribute at the Grammys took place in 2007, but it was actually 2006. (duh!) Also, Rustee was trying to remember a particular rock band at one point, and he told us later it was Foreigner. (lol) He also says “Steve Perry” when talking about the Grammys, but we think he meant Joe Perry. (oh well) Otherwise, we’re perfect! So there!

Rustee’s album, Simple Rules, including the single “That Thing You Do” featuring Bobby Womack, is available on Amazon, Spotify, and CD Baby. Look for the video for the remix of “Do Whatcha Wanna Do” with Levi Spencer, coming out soon.

Rustee plays Allen Eden Sonorus 5-string basses with Bartolini pickups.

Special thanks to Rustee’s manager B Crit Freeman for hooking us up!