ABSTRACT
In the 1970s and 1980s, the term “jazz” continued to encompass more and more substyles, some representing further development of previous styles and some exploring new directions. The development of electronic instruments, notably synthesizers, led to a vastly expanded sound palette.
Weather Report, founded by keyboardist Joe Zawinul and former Miles Davis saxophonist Wayne Shorter, was a major contributor to jazz fusion for 16 years.
Pianist Herbie Hancock first gained widespread recognition for his 1962 funky-jazz hit “Watermelon Man.” After working with Miles Davis, he tried other, different settings before forming the fusion group the Head Hunters, which recorded the hit “Chameleon” in 1973.
Bitches Brew guitarist John McLaughlin founded the Mahavishnu Orchestra in 1971, adding electric violin to the typical fusion instrumentation. The band was known for its very complex music, including changing, odd time signatures.
After playing in free and mainstream jazz settings, former Miles Davis keyboardist Chick Corea founded the group RTF.
A number of other jazz artists have continued to cross and blur the line separating jazz and rock. The trends in pop-influenced jazz did not begin and end with the 1970s, as will be shown in Chapter 14.
