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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Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (131–140)
TropicalJeff Lorbe
Included on the 1984 album “In the Heat of the Night.” A keyboard player born in 1952 from Pennsylvania.
As he himself says he’s conscious of cool chord changes, his selling points are fresh chord progressions and a funky sound.
The occasional percussion and synth add a tropical vibe.
It's YouJoyce Cooling
This is an early masterpiece by accomplished female guitarist Joyce Cooling.
Known for her percussive, smooth sound, this high-quality track fully hints at her later success and is characterized by a mellow, wistful tone.
Island-HopKazumi Watanabe
This is “Island-Hop,” a piece by Japan’s renowned guitar virtuoso, Kazumi Watanabe.
Perhaps because “island” is in the title, it has a laid-back vibe that really helps you relax.
The album it’s featured on, “Guitar Is Beautiful KW45,” includes some of Japan’s leading guitarists.
On this track, Watanabe collaborates with Shinichi Ubukata of ELLEGARDEN and flamenco guitarist Jin Oki.
It’s a truly luxurious track!
Pitter-PatterRymden
The Nordic Norwegian jazz group, Rymden.
Their fusion track “Pitter-Patter.” This piece features a crisp sound with a comfortable groove.
Built around drums, synthesizer, and bass, the simple trio setup makes it easy to listen to.
Enjoy the superb performance of this top-tier Nordic jazz trio to your heart’s content.
Sister MoonSting
A track by the British singer-songwriter Sting.
It is included on the 1987 album .
.
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Nothing Like the Sun.
The album reached the Top 10 on charts around the world and won a Brit Award.
TaljiWayne Shorter
This piece is from the album Native Dancer, which opened a new frontier for Wayne Shorter.
It features one of Milton Nascimento’s signature songs, and while the fusion elements are stronger and make it more accessible, its magical atmosphere remains intact.
You Bet Your LoveHerbie Hancock
He proved with Head Hunters that long tracks could translate into sales in the pop scene, but to take it this far into a Black Contemporary style—well, at the time of its release the song drew mixed reactions.
Listening now, though, it simply feels like a pleasantly straightforward dance number.