finetune artist: The Crusaders

This remarkably versatile group was formed in Houston, Texas, as the Swingsters. During the 50s, Wilton Felder (b. 31 August 1940, Houston, Texas, USA; reeds), Wayne Henderson (b. 24 September 1939, Houston, Texas, USA; trombone), Joe Sample (b. 1 February 1939, Houston, Texas, USA; keyboards) and Nesbert "Stix" Hooper (b. 15 August 1938, Houston, Texas, USA; drums), forged a reputation as an R&B group before moving to California. Known as the Jazz Crusaders, they were signed by the Pacific Jazz label for whom they recorded a series of melodious albums. In 1970, the quartet truncated their name to the Crusaders in deference to an emergent soul/funk perspective. In truth the group exaggerated facets already prevalent in their work, rather than embark on something new. A 1972 hit, "Put It Where You Want It', established a tight, precise interplay and an undeniably rhythmic pulse. The song was later recorded by the Average White Band, the kind of approval confirming the Crusaders" new-found status.

Listen to The Crusaders at Finetune.

(2008) Rural Renewal
(2008) Pass The Plate
(2007) Gold
(2006) Crusaders 1
(2006) The 2nd Crusade
(2004) Live In Japan
(2003) Groove Crusade
(2002) At Their Best
(2000) The Crusaders: Finest Hour
(1998) Priceless Jazz 12: The Crusaders
(1997) Healing The Wounds
(1997) Scratch
(1997) Southern Comfort
(1997) Free As The Wind
(1997) Chain Reaction
(1996) Street Life
(1996) Way Back Home
(1993) Royal Jam
(1992) Scratch
(1988) Those Southern Knights

Street Life
Keep That Same Old Feeling
Put It Where You Want It
Chain Reaction
So Far Away