The Jazz Crusaders emerged from the vibrant jazz scene of Houston, Texas in the late 1950s. Founded by four lifelong friends — pianist Joe Sample, saxophonist Wilton Felder, drummer Stix Hooper and trombonist Wayne Henderson — the group quickly evolved into one of the most influential and innovative ensembles in modern jazz.
Known for their powerful horn-driven sound, soulful grooves, and masterful blend of jazz, blues, gospel, and R&B, The Jazz Crusaders became a cornerstone of the soul-jazz and jazz-funk movements. Their distinctive Texas-rooted style — swinging, melodic, and deeply rhythmic — set them apart from their contemporaries.
In the early 1970s, the quartet shortened their name to simply The Crusaders. Collaborating with guitarist Larry Carlton and bassist Marcus Miller, they continued to push boundaries, incorporating electric instruments and broader funk elements while maintaining their signature sophistication. Their music has influenced generations of artists across jazz, R&B, hip-hop and smooth jazz; and many consider The Crusaders among the foremost pioneers of the jazz-rock/funk-fusion sound.
Street Knights – The Jazz Crusaders Revisited is a heartfelt tribute that honors this legendary catalog featuring tunes that even casual pop listeners will recognize.
Maputo
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
Eleanor Rigby
The Hustler
Thank You
Smiles and Smiles to Go
Carnival of the Night
Don’t Let It Get You Down
The Way We Was
Greasy Spoon
Chain Reaction
Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers
Put It Where You Want It
Keep That Same Old Feeling
With precision, passion and panache, Street Knights brings new life to the classic Crusaders sound while celebrating the enduring spirit of these jazz pioneers.
