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 jazz-funk classic. Recommended popular tracks with a different flavor from jazz (21–30)
Doin’ ItHerbie Hancock
A vibrant instrumental where jazz and funk blend seamlessly to set listeners’ hearts dancing.
This track by American jazz master Herbie Hancock is included on his 1976 album “Secrets.” Its richly colored soundscapes, woven from synthesizers and electric piano, are like a kaleidoscope of sound.
Even without lyrics, the piece directly conveys the exhilaration and irrepressible passion of “doing” something, just as the title suggests.
In October 1976, it was performed on the TV program “Don Kirshner’s Rock Concert,” captivating many music fans.
It’s the perfect tune for lifting your spirits or adding color to your everyday life.
What It IsBoogaloo Joe Jones
A jazz guitarist who debuted on Prestige Records in 1967.
With a style that brought blues and rock sensibilities into jazz, he carried out a cheerful and pop-leaning musical career through the 1970s.
His performances featured a diverse selection of songs, including covers of Carole King and Ray Charles.
The PathRalph MacDonald
Ralph MacDonald, an American artist who blends the Caribbean sun with New York’s urban sensibility.
His 1978 album The Path features an over 17-minute instrumental suite of the same name that is truly a grand epic woven in sound.
Beginning in Africa, then crossing the Caribbean to the American continent, the music’s journey is vividly drawn through the lively interplay of steel pan and congas.
There are no lyrics, yet the groove clearly conveys the birth of new music born from the mingling of diverse cultures.
This innovative fusion of jazz, funk, and Caribbean music is highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the profound depth that music can hold.
flyLettuce
A band formed out of jam sessions led by Soulive guitarist Eric Krasno.
The band’s name derives from the phrase “Let us!” The track is the title song from their 2012 album Fly.
Incorporating a hip-hop sensibility, it showcases a breadth that extends beyond jazz-funk alone.
D-TrainBoston Horns
A brass-funk band from Boston.
Formed around Berklee College of Music alum Garrett Sabulsky, the two-horn lineup delivers a hot, funky performance while retaining a jazz sensibility.
The track appears as the sixth song on their 2007 release, “Thousand Souls.” Although the band primarily plays instrumentals, this piece features vocals partway through.
Justice ft. Trombone ShortyDumpstaphunk
A jazz-funk band formed in 2003 around Ian Neville, formerly of The Meters.
While retaining the sensibilities of New Orleans funk, their appeal lies in tight beats and a diverse palette of sounds that blend various genres.
This is a 2017 track—be sure to check out the music video, which carries a strong message.
Eastwood Magic CityMOUNTAIN MOCHA KILIMANJARO
A jazz-funk band from Saitama, Japan.
They released their first album in 2008 and signed with the prestigious UK label JAZZMAN in 2009.
They have been actively performing live, including three appearances at the Fuji Rock Festival.
The track is a groovy funk number from their 2014 album “Ichini Sanshi Goroku.”