# Jazz Fusion — Genre

> Jazz + rock + electronic + world music. Complex, virtuosic, electric.

## Defining elements

- Jazz harmony + rock rhythm section
- Electric instruments
- Complex time signatures
- Virtuoso musicianship
- Extended improvisation
- Mixed influences (Latin, Indian, electronic)

## Sub-types

- **Classic fusion** — 70s (Weather Report, Return to Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra)
- **Smooth fusion** — accessible (Spyro Gyra, Yellowjackets)
- **Modern fusion** — contemporary (Snarky Puppy, Hiromi)
- **Acid jazz** — UK 90s (Jamiroquai, Brand New Heavies)

## Typical instrumentation

Electric guitar + electric bass + drums + electric keyboards / synthesizer + saxophone / trumpet

## Production characteristics

- Studio polish
- Layered arrangements
- Complex compositions
- Long-form pieces (5-10+ min)
- Live band foundation

## Lyrics direction

When vocal:
- Sophisticated themes
- Often instrumental focus
- Complex melodies for voice

## For Suno

```
[Style: jazz fusion, 105 BPM, F# minor with extended chords + modulations, 
electric guitar + electric bass + drums + Rhodes electric piano + 
saxophone solo, virtuosic playing, complex but accessible, instrumental 
focus]
```

## Examples

- Weather Report, Return to Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra
- Snarky Puppy, Hiromi, Robert Glasper
- Vocal fusion: Steely Dan, Jamiroquai

## Avoid

- Simplistic chord progressions
- Quantized rhythm
- Pop song structure
- Auto-tune
