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 (51–60)
TalesMarcus Miller
Included on the 1995 album “Tales.” A bassist born in 1959 from New York.
His rich expressiveness, achieved through distinctive techniques, is outstanding, and his slap playing influenced other bassists.
In this track, the horn, guitar, and bass ensemble is pleasing to the ear.
Trinkets and ThingsRyo Kawasaki
After making a name for himself at a young age as a studio musician in Japan, he moved to the U.
S.
and left a solid mark.
This mellow number of his is a breezy, pop-leaning fusion track with a tasteful touch of Brazilian flavor—an effortlessly pleasant sound.
It doesn’t sound stereotypically Japanese at all.
RockitHerbie Hancock
Included on the 1983 album “Future Shock.” A pianist born in 1940 from Chicago.
Since his debut, he has been a leading figure in the jazz scene for over 50 years, always at the cutting edge.
The opening of this track has been used on a TV program.
With its bold use of scratching, it still doesn’t feel dated even today.
The Woman of IrelandBob James
This piece has a slow, wistful sound, yet it’s interesting that from around the middle of the track you can hear a fairly glamorous arrangement.
Even among the works of an artist counted as one of the forefathers of fusion, this song falls into a rather unusual category.
Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (61–70)
Busy On The LineMark-Almond
Mark-Almond was a British pop group active from 1970 to 1981.
They are known for their jazz-influenced sound.
This track is included on the album “To The Heart,” released by ABC Records in 1976.
SearchingRoy Ayers
A slow number whose soulful yet airy tone keeps it from feeling overplayed even on repeat.
Despite its simple structure, the electric piano has a velvety richness, making it a track you’ll find yourself wanting to revisit in quiet moments.
Bitter Sweet SambaHerb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass
Included on the 1965 album “Whipped Cream & Other Delights.” Herb Alpert, born in 1935, is a trumpet player from Los Angeles.
Released under the name Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, this track is famous as the opening theme of All Night Nippon.
The trumpet rings out smoothly over the lightly trotting guitar and xylophone, creating a great vibe.