JOE SAMPLE LIVE IN JAPAN

It was said the first live in Japan for Joe Sample was in 1966 for the pianist for Percy Faith.

However, it was long time ago for me. My strong impact was in 1981 for the Crusaders, ONGAKUKAI.The album jacket was so impressive. It is never be of exoticism. It is just a image of The Crusaders !! Strong and Straight.

Also, it was recorded in 1981, when I was in deep interest in Fusion and Jazz. Every day we were circulated in friends house to listen to new albums and talk long and long. Brilliant days and brilliant music !!

ONGAKUKAI in 1981

Joe Sample (p), Wilton Felder (sax), Stix Hooper (ds), Roland Bautista (g), Nesbert Hooper (perc) Alphonso Johnson (b), Barry Finnerty (g)

In addition, in those years the Crusaders so frequently visited Japan!!

In 1980

Joe Sample (p), Wilton Felder (sax), Stix Hooper (ds), Bob Man (g) Luis Fisher (b), Airto Moreira (perc) Randy Crawford (vo)

in 1982

Joe Sample (p), Wilton Felder (sax), Stix Hooper (ds), David T.Walker (g), Barry Finnerty (g), Eddie Watkins (b), Airto Moreira (perc)

Each time they had a slight change of side-musicians, which made each album so colorful.

Joe Sample (Feb.1, 1939), Wilton Felder (Aug.31, 1940- Sep.27, 2015), Stix Hooper (Aug 15, 1938)

It is too sad that there never be even a slight chance to listen to their new collaboration, however, all the music were firmly kept in us.