The best Jazz-Funk albums
of the 1980s.
Where to start with 1980–1989 jazz-funk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1980s — jazz-funk
Top picks from 1980–1989, ranked by where we would start.
Herbie Hancock
Village Life
A vibrant fusion of jazz rhythms and African musical influences that transports listeners to a celebratory village atmosphere.
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Ramsey Lewis
Les Fleurs
A lush blend of jazz-funk and pop, infused with soulful melodies and vibrant arrangements that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
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Ramsey Lewis
Chance Encounter
A smooth blend of jazz-funk and pop, infused with soulful melodies and rhythmic sophistication.
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Herbie Hancock
Sound-System
An adventurous blend of electro-funk and jazz rhythms, pushing the boundaries of sound through innovative synth textures.
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Roy Ayers
Feeling Good
A vibrant blend of jazz-funk rhythms and soulful melodies that invites listeners to uplift and celebrate life.
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Tom Scott
Desire
A vibrant fusion of West Coast jazz and funk, laced with smooth melodies and energetic rhythms that invite movement.
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Jaco Pastorius
Word of Mouth
A vibrant fusion of intricate bass lines and rich harmonies, blending jazz, funk, and experimental elements into a cohesive soundscape.
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Ray Parker Jr.
Two Places at the Same Time
A vibrant blend of jazz-funk and rhythm and blues that radiates dancefloor energy and smooth grooves.
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Ray Parker Jr.
A Woman Needs Love
Smooth melodies and sultry grooves define this quintessential early '80s R&B album, blending jazz-funk with romantic themes.
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Roy Ayers
Africa, Center of the World
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and soul echoes a profound connection to African heritage and spirituality.
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Weather Report
Domino Theory
An intricate blend of jazz fusion and funk, pulsating with dynamic rhythms and exploratory improvisation.
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Weather Report
Procession
A seamless blend of intricate jazz fusion and exploratory improvisation, enveloping listeners in a sonorous journey.
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Level 42
Running in the Family
A vibrant fusion of jazz-funk grooves and catchy pop melodies that define the sound of late '80s British music.
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Level 42
The Early Tapes – July/Aug 1980
A vibrant blend of jazz-funk grooves and pop rock melodies, showcasing early experimentation with dance rhythms and sophisticated songwriting.
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David Benoit
Waiting For Spring
Smooth jazz melodies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, creating an uplifting soundscape that invites reflection and warmth.
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David Benoit
Freedom At Midnight
A smooth blend of jazz-funk grooves and lush melodies invite listeners into an atmospheric soundscape.
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Ray Anderson
Old Bottles - New Wine
A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, characterized by playful brass arrangements and infectious rhythms that invite movement.
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George Howard
A Nice Place to Be
A smooth blend of jazz and funk that invites listeners to unwind and groove through its melodic landscapes.
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George Howard
Reflections
A vibrant blend of smooth jazz and funk grooves, creating an inviting atmosphere that's both uplifting and introspective.
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Freeez
Gonna Get You
A vibrant fusion of jazz-funk grooves and new wave synths that captures the energetic spirit of early '80s dance music.
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Freeez
Southern Freeez
A vibrant fusion of jazz-funk grooves and new wave melodies, effortlessly bridging the dancefloor and the art aesthetic.
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