Joe Sample, American pianist and composer (d. 2014)

Joseph Leslie Sample (February 1, 1939 – September 12, 2014) was a preeminent American keyboardist, composer, and bandleader whose innovative sound profoundly influenced jazz, R&B, and contemporary music. Renowned for his unparalleled versatility and soulful expression, Sample left an indelible mark on the musical landscape through his foundational role in a legendary group and his prolific solo and session work.

Sample's musical journey began in Houston, Texas, where in 1960, he co-founded The Jazz Crusaders. This pioneering ensemble, initially rooted in hard bop and soul jazz, quickly distinguished itself with a vibrant sound. As the music evolved, so did the band, shortening its name to simply "The Crusaders" in 1971. Under this moniker, the group became a dominant force in jazz-funk and fusion, seamlessly blending sophisticated jazz improvisations with accessible R&B grooves. Sample's distinctive touch on the acoustic piano, and most notably, the Fender Rhodes electric piano, became a cornerstone of The Crusaders' widely recognized and commercially successful sound. He remained an integral part of the group, contributing to its groundbreaking albums until their final recording in 1991, with a notable reunion for the acclaimed 2003 album, Rural Renewal, which saw the original members reconvene.

Beyond his foundational contributions to The Crusaders, Joe Sample cultivated a highly successful and influential solo career beginning in the late 1960s. His solo recordings often explored the sophisticated nuances of contemporary jazz and R&B, showcasing his compositional prowess and unique keyboard voice. Simultaneously, Sample became one of the most sought-after session musicians in the industry, admired for his exceptional adaptability across genres. His extensive discography as a guest artist reads like a who's who of music legends, underscoring his remarkable versatility and the universal respect he commanded. He collaborated with jazz titans such as Miles Davis and George Benson, blues masters like B.B. King and Jimmy Witherspoon, rock and pop icons including Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, Joni Mitchell, and The Supremes, and acclaimed R&B artists like Anita Baker. This vast array of collaborations highlights Sample's unique ability to elevate any musical context with his distinctive style and profound musicality.

Joe Sample's enduring legacy is characterized by his masterful synthesis of diverse musical traditions. He effortlessly integrated the spiritual depth of gospel music, the raw authenticity of the blues, the intricate harmonic complexity of jazz, the rhythmic vitality of Latin forms, and even elements of classical structure into his compositions and improvisations. This unique fusion allowed him to create a sound that was both intellectually engaging and deeply emotive, resonating with a broad audience and influencing countless musicians across various genres. His ability to bridge the gap between popular appeal and artistic integrity solidified his status as a true innovator.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joe Sample

Who was Joe Sample?

Joseph Leslie Sample (1939-2014) was an American keyboardist, composer, and bandleader widely recognized for his pioneering work in jazz, R&B, and fusion music. He was a co-founder of the influential groups The Jazz Crusaders and The Crusaders, and had a successful solo career as well as being a prolific session musician.

What instruments did Joe Sample play?

Joe Sample was primarily known for his exceptional skill on various keyboard instruments. He masterfully played the acoustic piano, but he gained significant acclaim for his innovative use of the Fender Rhodes electric piano, which became a signature element of The Crusaders' sound. He also played other electronic keyboards and synthesizers.

What was The Jazz Crusaders / The Crusaders' significance in music?

The Jazz Crusaders, later known as The Crusaders, were groundbreaking for their evolution from a hard bop jazz ensemble to a pioneering jazz-funk and fusion group. They successfully merged sophisticated jazz improvisation with accessible R&B and soul grooves, achieving significant commercial success and influencing countless artists in the 1970s and beyond. Their unique sound broadened the appeal of instrumental music.

Who are some notable artists Joe Sample collaborated with?

Joe Sample was a highly sought-after session musician who collaborated with an incredibly diverse range of iconic artists across multiple genres. His notable collaborations include Miles Davis, George Benson, B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, Joni Mitchell, Anita Baker, The Supremes, and Jimmy Witherspoon, among many others.

What musical styles did Joe Sample incorporate into his music?

Joe Sample was celebrated for his unique ability to blend and synthesize various musical forms. His music frequently incorporated elements of gospel, blues, traditional jazz, Latin music, and classical compositions. This eclectic approach contributed to his distinctive and widely appealing sound.