Joe Sample was a key figure in the development of jazz fusion, a genre that combined elements of jazz with rock, funk, and other genres. He was a founding member of The Crusaders, a jazz fusion group that played a significant role in popularizing this style of music. Their fusion of jazz improvisation with funk and R&B rhythms helped bridge the gap between traditional jazz and contemporary popular music.
Joe was known for his exceptional skills as a pianist and composer. His piano playing was characterized by a distinctive blend of smooth, lyrical melodies and intricate, soulful improvisation. His compositions, whether for The Crusaders or his solo work, were widely respected for their sophistication and musicality.
Sample was a versatile musician who could excel in various musical contexts. In addition to jazz fusion, he worked in straight-ahead jazz, soul, and R&B genres. His ability to adapt his playing to different styles made him a sought-after session musician and collaborator.
Joe Sample's contributions to jazz and fusion had a lasting impact on contemporary music. Many contemporary jazz and R&B artists have cited him as an influence on their work, and his compositions have been covered by numerous musicians across genres.
The Crusaders, with Joe Sample as a key member, achieved commercial success with albums like "Street Life," which featured the hit title track sung by Randy Crawford. This success helped bring jazz fusion to a wider audience.
Joe Sample also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Miles Davis, Randy Crawford, Joni Mitchell, B.B. King, and many others. His ability to work effectively with artists from different musical backgrounds further demonstrated his versatility and adaptability.
Joe Sample was an important jazz musician due to his pioneering work in jazz fusion, his exceptional skills as a pianist and composer, his versatility in various musical contexts, his influence on contemporary music, his commercial success, and his extensive collaborations with other musicians. His contributions enriched the world of jazz and left a lasting legacy in the music industry.
In this rare video, we get a taste of Joe’s solo piano chops on his composition, Carmel.
Thank you for shining a light on the most notable of talent sometimes lesser known.