What makes Free as the Wind by The Crusaders notable?

'Free as the Wind' reached No. 36 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing The Crusaders' growing popularity during the mid-1970s. It is often credited for influencing the smooth jazz movement and solidifying their place in both jazz and popular music. Released in 1976, 'Free as the Wind' marked The Crusaders' transition into a more commercially successful phase following their acclaimed album 'Crusaders 1'. At this point in their career, they had honed their signature sound that combined jazz with elements of R&B and rock, appealing to a broader audience.