The Crusaders were a prominent American jazz fusion group that originated in the early 1960s. Known for their seamless blend of jazz, soul, and R&B, the band included notable members like Joe Sample, Wilton Felder, and Stix Hooper. Their signature sound was characterized by Sample's distinct keyboard playing and Felder's saxophone work. With influential works like "Street Life," The Crusaders significantly contributed to the popularization of the jazz fusion genre during the 70s and 80s.