The Jazz Crusaders

The Jazz Crusaders were an American jazz group formed in 1960 by high school friends Joe Sample (piano), Wilton Felder (tenor saxophone), Stix Hooper (drums), and Wayne Henderson (trombone) in Houston, Texas. They relocated to Los Angeles and began recording under the Pacific Jazz label in 1961. Their early sound was rooted in hard bop with influences from R&B and soul, reflecting the styles of artists like Cannonball Adderley and Art Blakey. The group released several critically acclaimed albums during the 1960s, including "Freedom Sound," "Lookin' Ahead," and "At the Lighthouse." They were known for their live performances, often recorded at the Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach.

In the early 1970s, the group shortened their name to The Crusaders and transitioned towards a jazz-funk style, incorporating electric instruments and collaborating with various artists. This change led to significant commercial success, particularly with their 1979 album "Street Life." The Crusaders continued to evolve, influencing jazz-funk and collaborating with prominent artists across genres. Despite lineup changes over the years, the original members are remembered for their innovative contributions to jazz and their ability to bridge different musical styles.

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Latest Release
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Spanish Castle (Remastered)
Album - 10 Tracks - Released June 30, 2018
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