Formed in the early 1970s, Lafayette Afro Rock Band was an American funk group that found its creative home in Paris, France. Known for their powerful grooves, dynamic horn sections, and intricate percussion, the band blended African rhythms with funk, rock, and soul influences. Though initially under the radar, their sound became legendary among hip-hop producers, with tracks like “Darkest Light” frequently sampled by major artists. Today, Lafayette Afro Rock Band is celebrated as a pioneering force in the global funk movement and a cornerstone of sample-based music culture.