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.
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- 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
A jazz-funk classic. Recommended popular tracks with a different flavor from jazz (21–30)
flyLettuce
A band formed out of jam sessions led by Soulive guitarist Eric Krasno.
The band’s name derives from the phrase “Let us!” The track is the title song from their 2012 album Fly.
Incorporating a hip-hop sensibility, it showcases a breadth that extends beyond jazz-funk alone.
Eastwood Magic CityMOUNTAIN MOCHA KILIMANJARO
A jazz-funk band from Saitama, Japan.
They released their first album in 2008 and signed with the prestigious UK label JAZZMAN in 2009.
They have been actively performing live, including three appearances at the Fuji Rock Festival.
The track is a groovy funk number from their 2014 album “Ichini Sanshi Goroku.”
Here Come The GirlsTrombone Shorty
A young trombone player born in New Orleans in 1986.
He has performed as a supporting musician for projects such as Rod Stewart and Fats Domino tributes.
In addition to the trombone, he has also made a name for himself as a trumpeter, drummer, organist, and tuba player.
The PathRalph MacDonald
Ralph MacDonald, an American artist who blends the Caribbean sun with New York’s urban sensibility.
His 1978 album The Path features an over 17-minute instrumental suite of the same name that is truly a grand epic woven in sound.
Beginning in Africa, then crossing the Caribbean to the American continent, the music’s journey is vividly drawn through the lively interplay of steel pan and congas.
There are no lyrics, yet the groove clearly conveys the birth of new music born from the mingling of diverse cultures.
This innovative fusion of jazz, funk, and Caribbean music is highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the profound depth that music can hold.
Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A ThingIncognito
A London-based acid jazz band and a catalyst for the acid jazz movement.
The name Incognito means “anonymous.” They took the world by storm with danceable pop structures infused with a soul/R&B sensibility.
The track is a cover of a song from Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions, arranged uptempo to suit the dance floor.