Masterpieces of Japanese fusion—From nostalgic classics to recent recommendations—
Fusion is a hybrid music genre that, while rooted in jazz, blends many elements ranging from rock and world music to electronic music and even classical.
In Japan as well, a fusion boom erupted from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, and bands and artists achieving major commercial success appeared one after another.
This time, we’re focusing on Japanese artists and bands to introduce classic tracks from Japanese fusion.
Please enjoy the brilliance of Japanese fusion—music that has greatly influenced the history of J-pop and features many key figures in the recently buzzworthy genre known as city pop!
- Ranking of popular fusion songs
- Masterpieces of Japanese instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
- [2026] Recommended Japanese Fusion Bands Summary
- Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
- [Western Music] Classic Jazz Fusion Masterpieces: Recommended Albums You Should Listen to at Least Once [2026]
- [Selected by the pros!] 10 great bassists from the jazz fusion world
- Masterpieces of Japanese fusion—From nostalgic classics to recent recommendations—
- Best City Pop Classics: Recommended Popular Songs [Timeless & Modern]
- [2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
- Carefully selected Japanese songs with a Latin flavor! Recommended J-POP brimming with exotic vibes
- A roundup of instrumental fusion bands active in Japan
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- [Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A roundup of hit songs from 00s J-POP
Masterpieces of Japanese Fusion: From Nostalgic Classics to Recent Recommendations (41–50)
AsiaMukaiya Minoru
A synth-driven number by Minoru Mukaiya, who had been releasing solo works since his days with Casiopea.
Although he’s now well-known for his work related to trains, such as a certain railway simulator, he’s a talented figure who also contributed to the development of Yamaha synthesizers.
twilightYamane Asai
A poignant, jazz-tinged number by her, also known for her work with George Yanagi.
It’s her debut song, but to be honest, it feels like her magnum opus—the ensemble is superb and her captivating vocal style is fully realized.
The synths are great.
Still Be BopHino Terumasa
Terumasa Hino, known worldwide for his work on the modern jazz scene.
Like many other jazz players, he gravitated toward fusion in the 1980s, and this track is from Daydream, one of his signature albums alongside City Connection.
Its brisk rhythm leaves a strong impression.
I believe in youAkiyama Kazumasa
This is a track by guitarist Kazumasa Akiyama, whose roots lie in The Beatles, James Marshall Hendrix, and jazz music.
It’s included on his debut album “DIG MY STYLE,” released in 1978.
The seductive guitar phrases are utterly captivating.
vibrationKasai Kimiko
Recorded just before he went to the U.S.
around ’78, this work was originally a version Tatsuro Yamashita provided to an overseas female vocalist.
Due to various circumstances, however, the Japanese version was released first.
Apparently, it’s a version Yamashita isn’t very fond of.
Perhaps because the soul flavor is toned down, it goes down quite smoothly to the ear.
LineKikuchi Masaaki
You can definitely sense the influence of fusion artists like Miles Davis, but the sonic image is extremely clear—a funky number that gives you the illusion your mind is getting infected as the riff repeats.
Of course, the exceptional expressive ability of the participating musicians is essential, and it’s fair to call it a well-crafted tour de force.
Far East ManŌmura Kenji
This piece is included in a signature solo album by a masterful guitarist who once played with the legendary folk group Akai Tori (Red Bird).
It’s a vocal track characterized by a dry sound, a beautiful voice, and a richly flavored guitar tone.
It also has a touch of new wave atmosphere.