The Crusaders are celebrated for their pioneering blend of jazz, soul, and funk, crafting a sound that seamlessly bridged these genres. With infectious grooves and soulful improvisations, they brought jazz-funk to mainstream audiences, leaving an impact that shaped the genre’s landscape in the 1970s and beyond.

Formed in Houston, Texas, in the 1950s as The Jazz Crusaders, the band originally focused on hard bop and soul jazz. Founding members Joe Sample (keyboardist), Wilton Felder (saxophonist), Stix Hooper (drummer), and Wayne Henderson (trombonist) were influenced by both jazz and the emerging sounds of R&B. They later dropped “Jazz” from their name, signaling their transition to a funkier, more accessible sound.

In the early 1970s, The Crusaders adopted funk elements, infusing their jazz compositions with bass-driven rhythms, upbeat grooves, and blues-inspired solos. Albums like "Pass the Plate" (1971) showcased this shift, incorporating rhythm-heavy tracks and rich, soulful melodies. They further explored funk on albums such as "Southern Comfort" (1974), balancing intricate jazz structures with danceable, groove-laden beats.

"Street Life" (1979) was a breakthrough that cemented The Crusaders’ reputation in jazz-funk. The title track, featuring vocalist Randy Crawford, became an international hit, blending jazz sophistication with an undeniable funk groove. "Street Life" was a perfect showcase of the band's style—sophisticated jazz harmonies paired with a pulsing, funk-inspired bassline and rhythmic drive. This album brought them to a wider audience and remains a classic in the jazz-funk genre.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, The Crusaders collaborated with various R&B and soul artists, further pushing funk’s influence in their music. Joe Sample’s keyboard solos, paired with Felder’s saxophone and Hooper’s tight drum grooves, created a sound that blended jazz’s spontaneity with funk’s rhythm. Their live performances highlighted their improvisational skills while maintaining a danceable groove, making them favorites on jazz-funk circuits.

As individual members pursued solo careers in the 1980s, The Crusaders continued evolving their sound, experimenting with electronic elements and synthesizers to keep pace with changing funk and R&B trends. Sample and Felder became prolific session musicians, lending their talents to funk and soul icons, thus embedding The Crusaders’ influence even deeper in modern music.

The Crusaders’ genre-blending approach and groove-filled style have left a lasting legacy. Known for hits like "Street Life" and "Put It Where You Want It," they’ve influenced countless jazz, funk, and R&B artists. Their work paved the way for jazz-funk fusion and opened jazz up to funk elements, helping it reach broader audiences.

The Crusaders’ story is one of continuous innovation. By merging jazz’s sophistication with funk’s rhythm, they created a timeless sound that resonates to this day, proving that great music transcends genres and inspires across generations.

Early Beginnings: Jazz Roots and the Evolution of FunkBlending Jazz with FunkBreakthrough with Street Life (1979)Funk Collaborations and InnovationsLater Years and Legacy