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 standard tracks (41–50)
Samurai Hee-HawMarc Johnson
Speaking of Marc Johnson, he is a globally acclaimed jazz double bassist from the United States.
In 1978, at the age of 25, he was selected to join Bill Evans’s final trio, an experience that greatly influenced his musicianship.
The piece I’m introducing here opens the album “Bass Desires,” recorded by the quartet he led in 1985 and released on the ECM label.
Though it has no lyrics, this instrumental is highly distinctive, evoking both Eastern scales and the arid atmosphere of the American West, and it sparks the listener’s imagination.
The electrifying interplay between two giant guitarists—Bill Frisell and John Scofield—is breathtaking, brimming with the improvisational flair and groove characteristic of fusion.
Energetic yet tinged with nostalgia, this sound is perfect for a drive or for anyone seeking a fresh musical discovery.
Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (51–60)
Proto-CosmosTony Williams
Tony Williams, the American innovator who expanded the possibilities of jazz drumming and pioneered the fusion genre.
The piece composed by keyboardist Alan Pasqua and included on the New Tony Williams Lifetime’s 1975 classic album “Believe It” brims with a fierce energy that seems to guide the listener into an unknown cosmos.
The interplay between Tony’s signature complex rhythms and Allan Holdsworth’s fluid yet razor-sharp guitar is breathtaking, and the tightly condensed tension packed into roughly four minutes still delivers a fresh sense of astonishment today.
This thrilling performance is perfect for anyone who wants to experience a collision of high-level technique and soul.
An inspiring 2007 re-creation by the composer himself together with Holdsworth was also documented, making it a masterful performance that continues to shine across generations.
Donna LeeJaco Pastorius
Included on the 1976 album “Jaco Pastorius.” Born in 1951 in Pennsylvania, this jazz bassist elevated the electric bass to a starring role in ensembles with his innovative technique.
The rapid-fire bass lines entwined with the percussion and their rhythm give the piece an indescribable allure.
FriendsBrad Mehldau Trio
A number whose jazzy, warm tones of wood bass and jazz piano soothe the heart.
The restrained yet imaginatively playful drumming also leaves an impression, making it a track that promises a luxurious chill time.
With a piano melody so beautiful it makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into an American jazz bar, this is one of Brad Mehldau’s humorous and technically brilliant masterpieces that will leave you spellbound.
All Behind Us NowPatti Austin
The song that begins with a crystal-clear, beautiful piano sound is Patti Austin’s “All Behind Us Now.” Patti Austin, a singer who thrived during the heyday of fusion, is a versatile vocalist who can handle not only soul but also jazz and R&B.
Her silky voice really touches the heart.
With the addition of a saxophone solo, it’s a very romantic track.
Tourist In ParadiseThe Rippingtons
A six-piece band formed in the U.
S.
in 1986.
They’re a flagship group of the LA-style fusion scene.
Their music is characterized by brisk, poppy, and refreshing melodies.
This track, too, features a notably light and bright melody that makes you want to start keeping the beat with your body.
Galileo (For Jaco)The Yellowjackets
Included on the 1988 album Politics.
A four-piece band formed in Los Angeles in 1981.
The band’s name means “hornet” in English.
They won a Grammy Award for Politics upon its 1988 release.
This track is dedicated to Jaco Pastorius, who passed away the previous year.