A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
The history of jazz is, quite simply, a story of evolution.
Starting with big band and, over time, incorporating elements that differed from earlier jazz—such as bebop, modal jazz, and fusion—new forms of jazz emerged along the way.
Among them, a uniquely developed style is what’s known as jazz-funk: music that integrates elements of funk, soul, and R&B while emphasizing groove.
Many of these timeless classics—often used as sampling sources in hip-hop—offer enduring appeal.
Enjoy!
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- Start here first! Classic jazz-rock masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks.
- Danceable Jazz! Classic and Recommended Albums of Acid Jazz
- A prestigious acid jazz band from overseas. Iconic songs originating from the UK.
- The Royal Road of Jazz: Classic modern jazz masterpieces. Popular tracks you should listen to at least once.
- [Western Music] Tracing the Roots of Funk: Essential Albums Beginners Should Hear at Least Once
- Hall of Jazz: Classic Blue Note Records. Recommended jazz albums.
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- Recommendation of Wa-Jazz: A Masterpiece of Japanese Jazz—One Must-Listen Album
- Contemporary Jazz Masterpieces | A Selection of Classics, Old and New!
- [Autumn Jazz] Classic and Popular Jazz Songs to Enjoy in the Fall
- What is jazz: If someone asks you to make it sound jazzy, what should you do?
- Funky Vibes: The Past and Present of Funk Music
Jazz-funk masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks with a different flavor from jazz (11–20)
Funky JunkJimmy McGriff
This is “Funky Junk,” from organist Jimmy McGriff’s signature album Electric Funk.
It’s an easy-to-groove-to mid-tempo track that makes you want to listen on a sunny summer day.
The organ bouncing around the blues scale is irresistible for funk lovers!
Road RageBig Organ Trio
This is Road Rage by the Big Organ Trio, led by Hammond organist Mike Mangan.
Mangan has a unique style of playing the organ while using effects pedals like a guitarist.
It’s a scorching track that will fire you up with their hard-hitting, rock band–level sound.
OblighettoJack McDuff
This irresistibly slightly shady, classic atmosphere that feels like it came straight out of an old spy movie belongs to a track called “Oblighetto” by Brother Jack McDuff.
As an organist, his smooth solo makes the mood of the piece all the more special.
The CatJimmy Smith
The album cover with a black cat on a red background is so striking it makes you want to buy it just for the jacket, but the contents are also incredibly funky and cool, packed with real standout tracks.
This title track follows a blues progression and lets you enjoy Jimmy Smith’s groove-filled solo.
Duck SoupCornell Dupree
This somewhat psychedelic-sounding track is “Duck Soup” by the renowned American guitarist Cornell Dupree.
You can enjoy a sound that’s a bit different from typical jazz-funk, with a reggae-like rhythm and the use of piano instead of organ.