Fred Wesley & the J.B.'s were a pivotal funk band active primarily during the 1970s. Led by trombonist Fred Wesley, a key collaborator with James Brown, the band's style blended jazz sophistication with raw funk to create a unique sound. They are best known for instrumental tracks like "Doing It to Death" and "Pass the Peas," which have significantly influenced subsequent generations of funk and hip-hop artists. Their tight, disciplined playing and innovative use of brass instruments set new standards in rhythm and blues musicianship.