Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

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!

Masters who perform jazz fusion. A roundup of notable international artists (21–30)

Reach OutGeorge Duke

Reach Out (12″ Version)

Reach OutGeorge Duke

George Duke, a pianist from the United States, was active on the fusion scene.

In the early 1970s, he performed with Jean-Luc Ponty and Frank Zappa, and as a solo artist he earned a Gold record with the album “Reach For It.” He also won a Grammy Award as a producer, establishing himself as a leading figure in fusion.

His distinctive musical style, which skillfully weaves together elements of jazz and funk, has influenced many musicians across genre boundaries.

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Song For BilbaoMichael Brecker

Song For Bilbao

Song For BilbaoMichael Brecker

Michael Brecker, a treasure of the tenor saxophone world.

After moving to New York in the 1970s, he played on countless artists’ albums and became a first-call musician thanks to his genre-defying musicality and technique.

In 1974, he formed the Brecker Brothers with his brother Randy and achieved great success; from the 1980s into the 1990s, he was also active with Steps Ahead.

Considered the most influential figure on tenor saxophone performance style since John Coltrane, his music is recommended not only for jazz fans but also for listeners of rock, R&B, and funk.

Until his passing from leukemia in 2007 at the age of 57, Michael remained passionately devoted to music.

His final work, the album “Pilgrimage,” was released posthumously and received high acclaim.

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In conclusion

We introduced a wide array of musicians from around the world who are active in the fusion scene.

The style, which is rooted in jazz and incorporates various other genres, has its own unique flavor with each musician, making it a real pleasure to listen to.

Be sure to check out the tracks by the artists featured in this article and find your new favorite musician.