A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
The history of jazz is, quite simply, a story of evolution.
Starting with big band and, over time, incorporating elements that differed from earlier jazz—such as bebop, modal jazz, and fusion—new forms of jazz emerged along the way.
Among them, a uniquely developed style is what’s known as jazz-funk: music that integrates elements of funk, soul, and R&B while emphasizing groove.
Many of these timeless classics—often used as sampling sources in hip-hop—offer enduring appeal.
Enjoy!
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- Start here first! Classic jazz-rock masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks.
- Danceable Jazz! Classic and Recommended Albums of Acid Jazz
- A prestigious acid jazz band from overseas. Iconic songs originating from the UK.
- The Royal Road of Jazz: Classic modern jazz masterpieces. Popular tracks you should listen to at least once.
- [Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once
- Hall of Jazz: Classic Blue Note Records. Recommended jazz albums.
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- Contemporary Jazz Masterpieces | A Selection of Classics, Old and New!
- Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
- Famous Western jazz classics. Recommended popular songs.
- Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
- Must-know standards for joining a jazz-funk session
A classic jazz-funk track. Recommended popular songs that are a bit different from jazz (1–10)
Crazyhorse MongooseGalactic
This is the song “Crazyhorse Mongoose” by Galactic, a band formed in New Orleans, the home of jazz.
A velvety smooth, cool-sounding bass line with a rhythmic organ.
A sharp guitar, supported by groovy drums.
It’s the kind of track that makes you want to shout, “This is jazz-funk!”
Road RageBig Organ Trio
This is Road Rage by the Big Organ Trio, led by Hammond organist Mike Mangan.
Mangan has a unique style of playing the organ while using effects pedals like a guitarist.
It’s a scorching track that will fire you up with their hard-hitting, rock band–level sound.
Watermelon ManHerbie Hancock
This track appears on Herbie Hancock’s debut album, Takin’ Off, released on the Blue Note label in 1962.
Blending both funky and Latin moods, the piece is more accessible than traditional jazz tunes, and its memorable melody became a major hit.
Jazz-funk masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks with a different flavor from jazz (11–20)
CannonballSOULIVE
Here’s a track from Soulive’s 2001 album “Doin’ Something.” It layers horns over a trio sound—guitar, keyboards, and drums—that feels nostalgic yet fresh.
The sharp, organ-driven backing is especially cool.
Funky JunkJimmy McGriff
This is “Funky Junk,” from organist Jimmy McGriff’s signature album Electric Funk.
It’s an easy-to-groove-to mid-tempo track that makes you want to listen on a sunny summer day.
The organ bouncing around the blues scale is irresistible for funk lovers!
OblighettoJack McDuff
This irresistibly slightly shady, classic atmosphere that feels like it came straight out of an old spy movie belongs to a track called “Oblighetto” by Brother Jack McDuff.
As an organist, his smooth solo makes the mood of the piece all the more special.
The CatJimmy Smith
The album cover with a black cat on a red background is so striking it makes you want to buy it just for the jacket, but the contents are also incredibly funky and cool, packed with real standout tracks.
This title track follows a blues progression and lets you enjoy Jimmy Smith’s groove-filled solo.