The increasing availability of synthesizers in the late 70s and early 80s spawned a new generation of Funk artists who typically replaced melodic segments traditionally performed with horns with synthesizers. Synthesizers also sometimes usurped the roles of keyboards and both electric and bass guitars. Synth funk often, but not always, incorportated drum machines to augment the futuristic sound. Prominent artists of synth funk include The Gap Band, Zapp, and Prince, and their example would go on to spawn a number of followers as well as influence many established funk acts like Cameo and Rick James. .
