Soul Shadows

Joe Sample

A keyboardist and composer of great finesse, Joe Sample has had the opportunity to excel in several musical arenas. As a founding member of the influential Jazz Crusaders (later just the Crusaders) in the 1960s, he helped to create the soul-jazz fusion associated with the era. He has also been a sought-after session player, gracing many important recordings by Motown artists and other jazz, rock, and R&B stars. As a member of Tom Scott's L.A. Express he backed Joni Mitchell on her seminal '70s albums, and he has written songs covered by soul singer Randy Crawford and blues guitarist B.B. King. Additionally, he has released acclaimed solo albums at a steady clip since the '70s, featuring his own sophisticated jazz compositions.