Ranking of popular fusion songs
When you hear the word “fusion,” what songs come to mind?
Some of you might not be able to picture what it sounds like.
Fusion is a broad genre that blends jazz and rock, so it can be hard to draw clear lines—and for those unfamiliar, it may feel a bit elusive.
It’s frequently featured in commercials and soundtracks, and is widely used as background music.
This media outlet, run by Live Spot RAG—a Kyoto venue that has long been devoted to fusion—will introduce you to truly outstanding tracks.
Based on reliable feedback from music fans we’ve received so far, we’ve researched the most popular picks and will present them in a ranking format.
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Fusion Popular Song Ranking (41–50)
HopoponoGoGo Penguin43rank/position
Formed in Manchester, UK in 2009, GoGo Penguin captivate many music fans with a sound that, while taking the form of a traditional piano trio, truly “fuses” jazz, electronica, and classical music.
A track from their acclaimed album v2.0, released in March 2014, seems to epitomize that musicality.
Chris Illingworth’s piano sometimes delivers minimal phrases reminiscent of Ahmad Jamal, interwoven with electronica-derived rhythms and Nick Blacka’s powerful bass lines, creating a unique sense of weightless flow and driving momentum.
The album v2.0, which includes this track, was highly praised and was even nominated for the Mercury Prize that same year.
It’s perfect not only as a companion for a drive, but also as background music when you want to focus—this work will surely create a wonderful atmosphere.
Be sure to experience their music as they explore new forms of jazz.
Django – Rudy Van Gelder Edition / Remastered 1999Grant Green44rank/position
This jazz track features Grant Green’s wonderfully moody guitar, active since the 1960s.
It’s perfect for sinking into with your favorite drink in hand or for stylish background listening.
With the sax’s rich tone and the piano’s rhythmic playing, it’s a sophisticated piece ideal for accompanying a delightful, grown-up moment.
WinelightGrover Washington Jr.45rank/position
Grover Washington Jr.
made his name as a master of fusion, weaving elements of rock and soul into a jazz foundation.
A saxophonist from the United States, he’s known as a key figure in establishing the smooth jazz genre.
He began playing saxophone at age 10 and produced numerous hits throughout the 1970s and ’80s, dominating the jazz, R&B, and pop charts.
His uniquely singular musical style blends lively funk arrangements with the brilliant tone of the sax.
Many members of his family are also musically gifted, and the sensibilities he cultivated in that environment live on in his work.
His groove-rich, captivating sound is perfect even for newcomers to fusion—be sure to give it a listen!
Bitter Sweet SambaHerb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass46rank/position
Included on the 1965 album “Whipped Cream & Other Delights.” Herb Alpert, born in 1935, is a trumpet player from Los Angeles.
Released under the name Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, this track is famous as the opening theme of All Night Nippon.
The trumpet rings out smoothly over the lightly trotting guitar and xylophone, creating a great vibe.
RockitHerbie Hancock47rank/position
Included on the 1983 album “Future Shock.” A pianist born in 1940 from Chicago.
Since his debut, he has been a leading figure in the jazz scene for over 50 years, always at the cutting edge.
The opening of this track has been used on a TV program.
With its bold use of scratching, it still doesn’t feel dated even today.
One WishHiroshima48rank/position
Included on the 1985 album “Another Place.” A five-piece band formed in 1974 in Los Angeles, mainly consisting of third-generation Japanese Americans.
Their sound is characterized by an awareness of oriental world music, featuring instruments like the koto and taiko drums.
The koto woven into the fusion setting creates an unusual resonance that, conversely, sounds refreshingly new.
Miami Vice ThemeJan Hammer49rank/position
Jan Hammer is a Czech-born keyboardist and composer who made his name worldwide through his work with the legendary band Mahavishnu Orchestra and guitarist Jeff Beck.
His hallmark is a style of playing the synthesizer with the passion of a lead guitar.
The sound of his fingers racing freely across the keys opened up new horizons in jazz fusion.
His talent is most widely known from the theme song of the smash-hit TV drama Miami Vice.
Capturing the spirit of the ’80s to perfection, the track still shines with undiminished brilliance today.
Immerse yourself in the pioneering sounds of the synthesizer!