What makes Ai No Corrida by Quincy Jones notable?

Ai No Corrida became a notable hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying Jones' role as a prominent producer and artist. The track's unique blend of genres contributed to its cultural impact, influencing subsequent artists and paving the way for future fusions of jazz with pop and funk elements. Released in 1980, Ai No Corrida followed Quincy Jones' successful album The Dude. At this point in his career, Jones was transitioning into a more experimental phase, diversifying his sound and embracing contemporary styles that appealed to broader audiences.

How many songs are on Ai No Corrida?

Ai No Corrida has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Ai No Corrida

Quincy Jones · 1980

8 min · 2 tracks · funk

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and bossa nova that elegantly captures the spirit of late '70s pop sensibilities.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ai No Corrida — This title track showcases Jones' innovative approach, merging intricate rhythms with lush orchestration and setting a new standard for genre blending in pop music.
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There's a Train Leavin' — This track complements the album's thematic exploration of movement and change, featuring soulful vocals that underscore the emotional weight of transition.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong compositional elements and production but lacks the depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent horn section that drives the melody, while syncopated rhythms create a danceable groove.
The arrangement includes layered vocals and intricate percussion patterns that highlight the bossa nova influence.
The second track shifts to a slower tempo with a more subdued instrumental backdrop, contrasting with the energy of the first.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified Quincy Jones' role as a prominent producer and artist with a notable hit.
Themes: late '70s pop fusion· soulful transitions· Brazilian rhythm influence
Career context: Released in 1980, Ai No Corrida followed Quincy Jones' successful album The Dude. At this point in his career, Jones was transitioning into a more experimental phase, diversifying his sound and embracing contemporary styles that appealed to broader audiences.
Stylistic neighbors: Herbie Hancock· Stevie Wonder· George Benson