Released in 77: But, with its politically charged lyrics and thundering funk licks, it could have easily been released 10 years before... Or 39 years after for that matter. Painting a picture of hopeless employment frustration Jess's sermon consummately adorns the funk groove arranged and written by erstwhile Motown composer Billy Nichols. The result is something that sits between Gil Scott Heron and Chic and works just as well as an instrumental as it does a vocal. This was built to last.