A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
Even when we talk about jazz in general, there are many subgenres, and quite a few have undergone their own unique evolution.
The “jazz-funk” featured in this article, as the name suggests, incorporates funk elements into jazz.
In fact, the term really took hold from the 1980s into the 1990s.
In other words, many works were rediscovered and reevaluated by later DJs and musicians, and the genre is also highly popular as a source for samples in hip-hop.
To get to know jazz-funk, we’ve put together not only classic staples from the 1970s that you should start with, but also recent noteworthy albums that embody jazz-funk sensibilities.
Whether you’re a beginner or already have some knowledge, please take a look!
Compilation of Classic Western Jazz-Funk Albums: From Standards to the Latest Releases (1–10)
ChameleonHerbie Hancock
A track defined by its distinctive worldview that fuses electronic music and jazz.
Its rhythms reflect the social changes of the 1970s, and the use of electronic synthesizers—novel at the time—is striking.
Included on the 1973 album “Head Hunters,” it reached No.
42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
18 on Hot Soul Singles.
Despite exceeding 15 minutes, its rhythmic, approachable bassline is captivating.
Though there are no lyrics, the piece expresses respect for individuality and diversity through improvisation.
A hallmark of jazz-funk, it has been sampled by many artists—including Nas, Kanye West, and the Beastie Boys—and featured in films and television.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone who wants to feel the possibilities of music.
One and OneMiles Davis
Miles Davis, a world-renowned jazz trumpeter.
He produced many classic albums, and among them, On the Corner is especially highly regarded.
Released in 1972, this work differed from his previous output, conceived with the idea of reaching a younger generation who preferred funk and rock that kept some distance from jazz.
In fact, many tracks reveal strong funk elements and experimental developments.
If you want to experience the essence of Miles Davis’s forward-looking vision, be sure to check it out.
Virtual InsanityJamiroquai
When it comes to standout works by Jamiroquai, the jazz-funk band that captured attention on the club scene, this song is the one that comes to mind.
Featured on their 1996 album ‘Travelling Without Moving,’ it delivers a fresh, incisive take on the relationship between technology and humanity.
Jay Kay’s soulful vocals blend perfectly with the funky rhythms, captivating listeners.
Its striking music video also drew widespread attention, winning four awards at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a gem that fires up the dance floor while carrying a deep message—an essential track every music lover should check out.
GamesDorothy Ashby
Dorothy Ashby is a world-renowned jazz harpist.
She’s a jazz artist known for cool jazz and hard bop, and she has many fans in Japan as well.
Among her albums, the much-lauded masterpiece is Afro-Harping.
Recorded in 1968, it’s known as one of her grooviest works.
Its soulful orchestration and performances on electric harp are absolutely powerful.
A Chance for PeaceLonnie Liston Smith
Rare groove is a music genre that began attracting attention in the late 1980s.
Strictly speaking, it feels more like one subdivision rather than a full-fledged genre.
The person who helped build the rare groove boom was Lonnie Liston Smith.
His highly acclaimed classic, Visions of a New World, is a captivating album packed with the best of rare groove.
The high-level electric piano, floating with an ethereal sense of weightlessness, is absolutely breathtaking.
Mister MagicGrover Washington Jr.
GROVER WASHINGTON, JR.
, the world-renowned saxophonist known for songs like “Just the Two of Us,” is one of the defining artists of jazz fusion and has produced many classic recordings.
Among them, the album I especially recommend is Mister Magic.
This work is famous for striking a balance between commercial success and artistic identity: it reached No.
10 on the pop charts while also receiving generally high praise from critics.
If you’re looking for catchy yet sophisticated jazz fusion, this is a must-listen.
RainmakerJohn Carroll Kirby
Pianist John Carroll Kirby, who has gained popularity for his distinctive style that mixes New Age and jazz, originally worked as a studio musician and possesses extremely high-level piano technique, earning him strong acclaim within the industry.
His masterpiece is the album Septet.
Although it’s a relatively new release from 2021, the work is crafted as a revival, consciously drawing on jazz from the 1970s to the 1980s.