5 Jazz-Funk Deep Cuts You Need to Hear (Hidden 70s Gems)

In this video, I’m heading back into the world of jazz funk and 1970s jazz fusion to spotlight five albums that rarely get the attention they deserve. These are not the obvious classics or the records that appear on every best jazz albums list. Instead, this is about deep cuts and hidden gems that reveal just how rich, diverse and forward thinking the jazz funk movement really was. If you are interested in expanding your listening beyond the standard recommendations, this selection is designed to point you towards records that reward careful, repeated listening. Across these five albums, we move through different shades of the 1970s jazz landscape, from groove driven electric jazz and warm analogue production to spiritually infused funk and more exploratory fusion textures. This is music shaped by tight rhythm sections, expressive horn playing, layered percussion and distinctive electric piano and organ sounds that defined the era. For anyone passionate about rare groove, soul jazz, CTI era production, Afrocentric influences or classic 70s fusion, there is plenty here to discover and absorb. Rather than simply listing albums, I explore what makes each record compelling from a musical perspective, how the musicians interact, and why these projects still sound fresh today. Whether you are a long time collector, a vinyl enthusiast, or someone beginning to explore jazz funk and jazz fusion more seriously, this video aims to give you thoughtful recommendations that go beyond the surface. If you enjoy in depth jazz album discussions, underrated jazz recommendations and uncovering lesser known 1970s jazz funk records, consider subscribing for more deep dives and carefully curated selections. Let me know in the comments which albums stood out to you and which jazz funk or fusion deep cuts you think deserve more recognition. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Grant Green - The Main Attraction 03:26 Harry Whitaker - Black Renaissance 05:15 Oneness Of Juju - African Rhythms 07:04 Eddie Russ - Fresh Out 08:35 Charles Earland - Leaving This Planet 09:52 Final Thoughts & Outro #jazzfunk #jazzfusion #jazzmusic