Most jazz fusion history radiates outward from , who pioneered the sound with albums like In a Silent Way (1969) and the landmark Bitches Brew (1970). His band members eventually formed the genre's most influential "Big Four" groups:

: Founded by Chick Corea , they blended jazz-rock with Latin elements, exemplified by tracks like “Spain”.

: His album Head Hunters (1973), featuring the funk-heavy “Chameleon,” became one of the genre's best-selling works. Essential Albums for Your Collection 10 Essential Jazz Fusion Tracks