Funky Dad was formed in London in 1989 by Jon Mellor and Baz Archer. Initially the band played funk versions of TV and film themes around the pubs of London but when a singer was added, the band worked increasingly on the cabaret circuit, mainly in the UK but also in Germany where military gigs were plentiful. The repetoire was varied but the band were particularly renowned for faithful versions of 70s disco favourites from acts such as Chic, Sister Sledge, Shalamar, George Benson and Gloria Gaynor.

Jon formed a super-tight rhythm section with Clive Jenner, who went on to play with Lenny Kravitz, The Freestylers, Groove Armada, Roots Manuva and The Proclaimmers. On keyboards, Baz Archer was also active on the London session scene, before moving to Australia, where he worked for many years with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

The quartet was made up by lead singer Emma Routledge, later replaced by Sarah Rawnsley and then Sam Lynham, who became better known through work with her band Gramme. Celebrity guest singers also included Greg Wise and Rick Astley!

Funky Dad was active for 10 years, between 1989 and 1999.