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 perform jazz fusion. A roundup of notable international artists (21–30)
CountdownVictor Bailey
The American prodigy Victor Bailey was chosen to succeed the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius in the prestigious band Weather Report.
The formidable rhythm section he forged with drummer Omar Hakim infused the band with a fresh groove.
His true forte lies in melodious bass lines that sing as if they were vocals.
His original solos—dubbed “scat bass”—grip listeners’ hearts in an instant.
Transcending the bounds of jazz fusion with ease, his playing also brought vivid color to songs by pop stars like Madonna.
Once you experience his work, you’ll be captivated by the limitless possibilities of the bass guitar.
Westchester LadyBob James
When it comes to masters of the fusion genre—centered on the blending of jazz and classical music while incorporating elements of pop and rock—you can’t leave out American keyboardist Bob James.
He launched his solo career in the 1970s, releasing hallmark albums such as “One” and “Two.” Among his works, “Angela” is widely known as the theme song for the popular TV show “Taxi,” which is also beloved in Japan.
In addition to earning two Grammy Awards, he formed the group Fourplay with Harvey Mason and others, pursuing band activities with great energy.
His appeal lies in a free-spirited musicality unconstrained by form, including ventures into classical approaches.
He’s a highly recommended artist for anyone new to fusion.
Melodies Of LoveJoe Sample
In the fusion scene—characterized by a jazz foundation blended with elements of rock, soul, and Latin—Joe Sample, an American pianist, played a pivotal role.
Known as a founding member of The Jazz Crusaders, Sample was active from the 1950s through the 2010s.
As a solo artist, he released numerous works starting with 1969’s Fancy Dance.
He was also known for composing songs for other artists, such as One Day I’ll Fly Away from the film Moulin Rouge.
Sample made an enormous contribution to the jazz world.
SongbirdKenny G
Kenny G is a representative artist of smooth jazz and adult contemporary jazz.
He is a saxophonist from the United States who debuted in 1982.
His signature song is Songbird, a hit included on the album Duotones, which became the foundation of his commercial success.
His musicianship—performing fusion jazz with an emotionally rich saxophone tone—is highly acclaimed.
He is a recommended artist for those getting into smooth jazz!
Mas Que NadaAl Jarreau
Al Jarreau was an American singer-songwriter who was active across a wide range of genres, including jazz, R&B, and pop.
He released his debut album, We Got By, in 1975.
We’re in This Love Together, included on his 1981 album Breakin’ Away, became one of his signature songs.
Highly acclaimed in the music industry, he won seven Grammy Awards and continued to exert cross-genre influence over a career spanning more than 50 years.
Known for his distinctive vocal style and scat-singing technique, he was even dubbed a “scat acrobat.” He’s an artist highly recommended for fans of jazz and R&B.
Chicago SongDavid Sanborn
American saxophonist David Sanborn is a master of fusion who blends jazz with rock, soul, R&B, and other genres.
He made his debut in 1975 with his first album, “Taking Off,” and has an outstanding track record, including six Grammy Awards, eight Gold albums, and one Platinum album.
His album “Straight to the Heart,” produced by Marcus Miller, won the 1986 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance, among other accolades that attest to the high regard for Sanborn’s musicianship.
He began playing the saxophone as part of treatment for childhood polio and started performing at 14; appearances at Woodstock and collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and David Bowie speak to his exceptional talent.
He’s highly recommended as an entry point to fusion music!
Breezin’George Benson
George Benson is a U.
S.
-born guitarist and singer-songwriter who spans the genres of jazz, R&B, and pop.
Remarkably, his career began in childhood, and he had already signed with a record label by the age of ten.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he achieved great success both as a jazz guitarist and as a solo artist.
In particular, his 1976 smash hit “This Masquerade” won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
While Benson has garnered numerous Grammys, he is especially known for honoring jazz traditions while skillfully adapting to pop music.
In addition to his talent as a guitarist, he showcases a distinctive scat style as a vocalist.
Crossing the boundaries between jazz and pop, Benson’s music comes highly recommended not only for jazz aficionados but for music fans of all kinds.