Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.

Funky SnakefootAlphonse Mouzon

Funky Snakefoot

Starting with wild percussion and driven by a passionate beat, this track is a work by American jazz-fusion drummer Alphonse Mouzon.

The interplay between the deep synth bass tones and the brass is intensely fiery, and above all, the groove-rich, hyper-technical drumming feels incredibly good—an outstanding piece.

MaputoBob James

Bob James, David Sanborn – Maputo (audio)

A moody track by pianist and producer Bob James, elevated by David Sanborn’s tasteful saxophone.

The supporting performance that closely follows and underpins the sax melody is superb, further enhancing the atmosphere.

Sanborn’s dynamic phrasing and distinctive technique are also unique and delightful, making it an immensely satisfying listen.

Blacks and BluesBobbi Humphrey

Bobbi Humphrey – Blacks and Blues (1973)

A lovely track by her, who could be called a leading female fusionist.

The flute is superb—as you’d expect from a specialist—but the entwining analog synthesizers are also pleasing to the ear, showcasing how skillfully she harnessed the latest sounds of the time.

ExclamationChris Potter

Exclamation

The American saxophonist Chris Potter’s odd-meter masterpiece “Exclamation” feels absolutely incredible.

With saxophone and synthesizer unison lines racing through rapidly shifting notes, it’s a track that showcases a remarkably powerful melody.

And as you’d expect from a fusion number by a sax player, the finesse of his phrasing and breath control is truly captivating.

Straight To The HeartDavid Sanborn

David Sanborn – Straight To The Heart (High Quality)

When it comes to fusion saxophonists, the first name that comes up is David Sanborn.

A song of his I recommend is “Straight to the Heart.” The album Straight to the Heart, which includes this track, won the 1986 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance.

It’s a ballad where Sanborn’s signature bright, clearly defined sax tone shines over a mellow band sound.

In contrast, his ad-lib sections burst with intense, funky blowing—the gap is seriously cool, making this a must-listen track!

All Through the NightEarl Klugh

All Through the Night

A vivid fusion number that immediately hits your ears with the bright tone of a high-register gut guitar in the intro.

You could call it a textbook example of how to use slap bass—the percussive elements make the track immensely satisfying.

It’s the kind of song that can clear away a cloudy mood.

If you want to revel in the beautiful timbre of a gut guitar, this masterpiece is as perfect as it gets.

ExpansionsLonnie Liston Smith

Lonnie Liston Smith – Expansions (Official Audio)

Lonnie Liston Smith is an American jazz and funk musician.

This track was used in the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City and was sampled in DJ Sneak’s 1995 track “Expand Your Horizons.”