What makes Prelusion by Patrice Rushen notable?

This album is significant for its early contribution to jazz fusion, blending elements of soul with complex jazz arrangements. It helped establish Rushen as a prominent figure in the genre and has since influenced many artists within jazz and beyond. Prelusion is Patrice Rushen's debut album, released in January 1974 when she was just 20 years old. At this point in her career, she was transitioning from being a student at the University of Southern California to a professional musician, showcasing her impressive skills as a pianist and composer.

Who is Prelusion for?

Prelusion works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove exploration, vibrant rhythms for focused listening and intricate melodies for detail appreciation.

How many songs are on Prelusion?

Prelusion has 5 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Prelusion

Patrice Rushen · 1974

44 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz and soul, characterized by intricate rhythms and rich melodic explorations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Shortie's Portion — Opening with energetic piano work, this track showcases Rushen's virtuosic musicianship while setting the tone for the fusion of styles that define the album.
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7/73 — A sprawling composition that highlights Rushen's ability to weave intricate melodies into expansive improvisational sections, reflecting the adventurous spirit of the era.
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Haw Right Now — This track features compelling rhythmic interplay and dynamic shifts that exemplify Rushen's innovative approach to jazz fusion, making it a standout piece.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and skilled performances, establishing Rushen's unique voice in jazz fusion.

What we noticed

Each track maintains a distinct melodic theme while exploring various improvisational sections, allowing for dynamic shifts in mood and tempo.
The use of electric instruments alongside traditional jazz elements creates a vibrant sound palette that blends genres seamlessly.

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 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove exploration
vibrant rhythms for focused listening
intricate melodies for detail appreciation
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Prelusion is Patrice Rushen's debut album, released in January 1974 when she was just 20 years old. At this point in her career, she was transitioning from being a student at the University of Southern California to a professional musician, showcasing her impressive skills as a pianist and composer.
Stylistic neighbors: George Duke· Chaka Khan· Herbie Hancock

New to Patrice Rushen? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Shortie's Portion 8:46
2 7/73 12:35
3 Haw Right Now 8:05
4 Traverse 10:56
5 Puttered Bopcorn 4:17

What to play next

Listen next

Before the Dawn

1975

Go back to

Anthology

Full Patrice Rushen discography Where to start with Patrice Rushen Artists like Patrice Rushen

jazz fusion soul

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata