What makes Touchdown by Bob James notable?

'Touchdown' is most notable for its single 'Angela,' which became widely recognized as the theme from the popular television series 'Taxi.' The album itself showcased Bob James's innovative approach to jazz and helped popularize the smooth jazz genre, influencing many artists who followed. Its commercial success also contributed to the rising prominence of jazz-fusion in the late 1970s. At the time of 'Touchdown's' release in 1978, Bob James was already an established figure in the jazz scene, following the success of his previous album 'One.' This record further emphasized his unique fusion of jazz with elements of pop and R&B, solidifying his position as a pioneer in smooth jazz. It came during a pivotal moment when instrumental music was gaining broader appeal on radio and television.

Who is Touchdown for?

Touchdown works well if you're into serene urban evening ambience, steady pacing for casual listening and smooth background for socializing.

How many songs are on Touchdown?

Touchdown has 5 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Touchdown

Bob James · 1978

34 min · 5 tracks · cool jazz

A smooth blend of cool jazz rhythms and sophisticated melodies that evoke a serene, urban atmosphere.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

serene urban evening ambience
steady pacing for casual listening
smooth background for socializing
melodic sophistication with warmth

Maybe skip if you want

prefer fast-paced excitement
seek high-energy dance tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: At the time of 'Touchdown's' release in 1978, Bob James was already an established figure in the jazz scene, following the success of his previous album 'One.' This record further emphasized his unique fusion of jazz with elements of pop and R&B, solidifying his position as a pioneer in smooth jazz. It came during a pivotal moment when instrumental music was gaining broader appeal on radio and television.
Stylistic neighbors: David Benoit· George Benson· Kenny G

Tracklist

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

1 Angela (Theme From "Taxi") 5:42
2 Touchdown 5:42
3 I Want to Thank You (Very Much) 7:09
4 Sun Runner 6:16
5 Caribbean Nights 9:22

What to play next

Listen next

Lucky Seven

1979

Go back to

Heads

1977

Full Bob James discography Artists like Bob James

cool jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata