Idris Muhammad was an American jazz drummer whose influence spread well beyond the jazz arena. Born Leo Morris on November 13, 1939, in New Orleans, Louisiana, he was immersed in music from an early age, playing in various funk and jazz ensembles. His adeptness in fusing elements of funk, soul, and jazz allowed him to develop a unique and versatile style that would become influential in the development of jazz-funk and later, acid jazz.

Muhammad's career was marked by a series of successful collaborations and solo projects. Some of his most critically acclaimed albums include "Power of Soul" (1974) and "Turn This Mutha Out" (1977), which showcase his dynamic, groove-oriented drumming and became benchmarks in the fusion genre. Having worked with a roster of legendary musicians such as Lou Donaldson, Pharoah Sanders, and Roberta Flack, Muhammad's drumming was both foundational and innovative. His ability to blend rhythmic complexity with a deep pocket made his work widely sampled in hip-hop and electronic music, underscoring his long-lasting impact on music far beyond traditional jazz. Muhammad passed away on July 29, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most revered drummers in the fusion movement.

Genres

Jazz Funk

New Orleans Funk

Soul Jazz

Related Artists

Herbie Hancock

Roy Ayers

Donald Byrd

George Benson

Bob James

Lonnie Liston Smith

Chet Baker

Miles Davis

Terence Blanchard

Brian Culbertson

Billy Preston

Kenny Burrell

Latest Release

Could Heaven Ever Be Like This (Walker & Royce and Chris Lorenzo Remix)

Idris Muhammad•

Walker & Royce•

Chris Lorenzo

Single - Released August 12, 2022