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The Crusaders

The Crusaders, a formidable group in the world of jazz, soul, and rhythm and blues, initially emerged on the music scene in the early 1960s. They were originally known as The Jazz Crusaders, a moniker that established their commitment to the jazz tradition. However, as their sound evolved to include more elements of funk and soul, they shortened their name to The Crusaders in 1971, signaling a broader musical direction. Their most famous lineup included Joe Sample on keyboards, Wilton Felder on saxophone and bass, Stix Hooper on drums, and Larry Carlton on guitar, though the group's roster would fluctuate over the years.

The Crusaders' impact on jazz and pop music is encapsulated in their fusion of sophisticated harmonies with groove-centric rhythms, a formula that brought them considerable acclaim and crossover success. One of their most enduring hits is "Street Life" from the album of the same name released in 1979, which featured the powerful vocals of Randy Crawford and remains a definitive anthem of the era. Over the decades, The Crusaders have continued to tour and release new music, with albums like "Healing The Wounds" and "Rural Renewal" showcasing their ability to adapt and remain relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape. Their legacy, evidenced by a catalog of releases that blends improvisational jazz with a more accessible pop sensibility, has cemented their reputation as innovators and mainstays in the development of contemporary jazz.

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