Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
“Fusion” is a music genre that grew out of jazz, and true to its name, it blends a wide range of elements into a genuinely crossover sound that has produced countless classic albums and songs.
If you’re curious about fusion and want to sample a few tracks, this article introduces essential tunes—from soft, stylish numbers to complex, groundbreaking pieces.
Focusing mainly on overseas artists, we’ll cover beloved hits from years past, canonical staples, and standout tracks by artists who blend the hallmarks of jazz fusion with contemporary flair.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic for the old days or searching for modern fusion, read on.
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- [Western Music] Must-Know: A Roundup of Popular Overseas Fusion Bands
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- [2026] Recommended Japanese Fusion Bands Summary
- Masterpieces of Japanese fusion—From nostalgic classics to recent recommendations—
- Start here first! Classic jazz-rock masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks.
- Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists
- [2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
- [Jazz Intro] Classic Jazz Tracks Recommended for First-Time Listeners
- [Selected by the pros!] 10 great bassists from the jazz fusion world
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- [All Genres] Introducing Masterpieces of Guitar Instrumentals!
Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (121–130)
SHADOW DANCEDave Holland
Dave Holland is a British jazz double bassist who has been active since 1964.
This track is from his first big band album, What Goes Around, released in 2002.
The album won a Grammy Award.
Looking GlassAllan Holdsworth
Allan Holdsworth was a British guitarist and composer active from 1969 to 2017.
Over a career spanning more than 40 years, he played in a variety of sonic styles, but he is best known for his work in jazz fusion.
This track appears on his fourth album, Atavachron, released in 1986.
EuropanemaBURNIER & CARTIER
A lively and unique harmony number by a sibling duo whose father is Brazilian samba guitarist Luiz Bonfá.
They play with an effortless touch, but they possess considerable technique and taste—it’s a shame their active period was so short.
GalaxyEddie Henderson
Eddie Henderson is a New York jazz trumpeter active since 1970.
He is also known for his work with Herbie Hancock’s band.
This track is included on the album “Sunburst,” released by Blue Note in 1975.
Fusion music masterpieces. Recommended classic tracks (131–140)
Wild Things Run FastJoni Mitchell
The title track from the album released in 1982 by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell.
It was the first album to feature her husband, bassist Larry Klein.
This rhythmic album was inspired by Joni’s travels in the Caribbean.
Forget Me NotsPATRICE RUSHEN
This is the song “Forget Me Nots” by Patrice Rushen.
It’s a track that really showcases her versatility as both a vocalist and a pianist.
And that funky bassline could get even the fussiest kid grooving! It’s an easy listen even for newcomers to fusion music.
Put this on at a party and you’re guaranteed to be the “cool one” from today on!
End of the RoadPaul Jackson, Jr.
This is a song called “End Of The Road” by Los Angeles-born guitarist Paul Jackson Jr.
The abundance of guitar techniques in it is breathtaking.
It’s amazing how a mere five minutes can move people so deeply.
Paul Jackson Jr.
is said to be one of the most recorded guitarists in the world.
Among Japanese artists, he has participated as a session musician in recordings for Yumi Matsutoya.