Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
“Fusion” is a music genre that grew out of jazz, and true to its name, it blends a wide range of elements into a genuinely crossover sound that has produced countless classic albums and songs.
If you’re curious about fusion and want to sample a few tracks, this article introduces essential tunes—from soft, stylish numbers to complex, groundbreaking pieces.
Focusing mainly on overseas artists, we’ll cover beloved hits from years past, canonical staples, and standout tracks by artists who blend the hallmarks of jazz fusion with contemporary flair.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic for the old days or searching for modern fusion, read on.
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Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended standard tracks (101–110)
Talk to Your DaughterRobben Ford
This is a song by Robben Ford called “Talk To Your Daughter.” It’s a very bluesy and cool track! When you listen to his soloing, it’s strongly rooted in the blues, but you can definitely feel fusion elements here and there.
Early in his career, he also played with the fusion band Yellowjackets.
He must have been greatly influenced by fusion during that time!
XaviSnarky Puppy
Snarky Puppy is a funk group known for its rotating lineup of over 30 members and for winning numerous awards, including Grammys.
They are one of the most famous bands in fusion.
Their track “Xavi” features a passionate rhythm and introduces many melody-carrying instruments.
Even at just under ten minutes, it’s a stunning number that never loses your attention.
EuropanemaBURNIER & CARTIER
A lively and unique harmony number by a sibling duo whose father is Brazilian samba guitarist Luiz Bonfá.
They play with an effortless touch, but they possess considerable technique and taste—it’s a shame their active period was so short.
Fine Corinthian LeatherCharlie Hunter
This track showcases guitarist Charlie Hunter at his coolest.
The guitar tone is superb and used to great effect, and he plays with a playful freedom, surrendering to the tightly chopped drumming.
You can catch glimpses of a master in the way he uses rests and intertwines with the other instruments.
When the guitar’s high notes start to ring out, you can’t help but feel something’s about to happen—an irresistibly fun track.
The Romantic WarriorReturn To Forever
Included on the 1976 album “Romantic Warrior.” A five-piece band from New York that began activity around 1972.
Chick Corea and Stanley Clarke were members.
Each player’s performance, carried along by a breezy, wind-like piano, makes this 10-minute track feel short.
Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (111–120)
Aga di BebeAQUARIUS & LOUIS ANTONIO
This song became world-famous thanks to Astrud Gilberto’s charmingly lisping vocal style, but this version achieves a denser sound than traditional bossa nova.
The male scat in the middle of the track, in particular, is a very tasteful arrangement.
Looking GlassAllan Holdsworth
Allan Holdsworth was a British guitarist and composer active from 1969 to 2017.
Over a career spanning more than 40 years, he played in a variety of sonic styles, but he is best known for his work in jazz fusion.
This track appears on his fourth album, Atavachron, released in 1986.