Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists
Jazz fusion, a genre where various elements blend together, has captivated many music fans with its free-ranging textures and innovative sound.
Through performances that transcend the boundaries of instruments like piano and saxophone, artists who breathed new life into the traditional elements of jazz have opened up new possibilities in music.
In this article, we introduce pioneering international figures and accomplished musicians essential to any discussion of jazz fusion.
Enjoy the allure of their groundbreaking sound in these pages!
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Masters who play jazz fusion: A roundup of representative overseas artists (1–10)
Miami Vice ThemeJan Hammer
Jan Hammer is a Czech-born keyboardist and composer who made his name worldwide through his work with the legendary band Mahavishnu Orchestra and guitarist Jeff Beck.
His hallmark is a style of playing the synthesizer with the passion of a lead guitar.
The sound of his fingers racing freely across the keys opened up new horizons in jazz fusion.
His talent is most widely known from the theme song of the smash-hit TV drama Miami Vice.
Capturing the spirit of the ’80s to perfection, the track still shines with undiminished brilliance today.
Immerse yourself in the pioneering sounds of the synthesizer!
ChameleonHerbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock is a master of fusion who blends diverse musical styles on a jazz foundation.
A prodigious pianist from childhood, he turned professional in 1960 and debuted on the Blue Note label in 1962 with Takin’ Off.
Watermelon Man from that album became a hit and brought him to the attention of Miles Davis.
In the 1960s, while performing with the Miles Davis Quintet, he released landmark albums such as Maiden Voyage.
In the 1970s, Head Hunters became the first jazz album to go platinum, and in the 1980s, Future Shock incorporated electro-funk and won a Grammy.
Known for an innovative musical vision that transcends the boundaries of jazz, Hancock is an artist I recommend not only to jazz fans but to music lovers of all kinds.
Feel Like Makin’ LoveLarry Coryell
Larry Coryell, the American guitarist affectionately known as the “Godfather of Fusion.” His guitar playing, which fuses the energetic spirit of rock with the refined technique of jazz, seems to smash through genre barriers.
The Free Spirits, the band he formed, are credited with opening the door to jazz-rock.
In particular, the album “Spaces,” recorded with Chick Corea and others, became a historic masterpiece that went on to sell 250,000 copies.
You can’t help but feel the drama of music in the story that this one record paved the way for future stars.
One listen to his innovative guitar work, and you’re sure to become a fusion devotee!
Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists (11–20)
ChromazoneMike Stern
Mike Stern is an American guitarist who combines the heart of jazz with the soul of rock.
Among his solo works, the highly popular “Upside Downside” features collaborations with star musicians like Jaco Pastorius and David Sanborn.
One moment he delivers tear-tinged phrases that cut deep into the blues, and the next he unleashes breathtakingly fast bebop lines—his performance is truly overwhelming.
The floating, spacious sound he crafts using chorus and delay is also one of his trademarks.
His triumphant return after suffering severe injuries to both arms, driven by an indomitable spirit, moved the hearts of many music fans.
School DaysStanley Clarke
Stanley Clarke is a bassist from the United States who revolutionized the world of jazz fusion.
His legendary work with Chick Corea in the band Return to Forever is the stuff of music history.
Clarke’s signature is the slap technique, striking the bass like a percussion instrument; his powerful, highly technical playing sent shockwaves through the music scene of the time.
His classic track “School Days” is an immortal masterpiece with a super cool, funky groove.
His talents aren’t confined to jazz—he’s worked across rock and film music as well, with boundless versatility.
As his sound continues to evolve, you just might find yourself completely captivated.
Way Back HomeSteve Gadd
Steve Gadd, an American drummer beloved around the world as the “God of Drums.” That inventive drum pattern you hear on Paul Simon’s classic track is so iconic, isn’t it? The groove he creates isn’t just precise—it’s full of lyricism and effortlessly stylish.
While he’s a pillar of the jazz-fusion genre, he’s also left countless legendary performances in rock and pop, showcasing a truly astonishing musical breadth.
You might even discover that a favorite song you’ve been casually listening to all along actually features his drumming.
Be sure to take a moment to listen closely to his magical drumming!
Race With Devil On Spanish HighwayAl Di Meola
Al Di Meola, the American guitarist who has captivated countless fans with lightning-fast picking and passionate melodies, made his name resound across the globe with Return to Forever, led by Chick Corea.
The essence of his music lies in boldly fusing the spirit of Latin, flamenco, and rock while grounded in jazz.
His work brims with elements worthy of the term virtuosity—blistering runs and intricate rhythmic sequences—yet it is the poetic melodies breathing within that move the heart.
He is an artist whose sound offers a deeply engaging experience, like watching a film scene where torrents of passion intersect with moments of stillness.