Joe Sample

Bio

Joe Sample (1939–2014) was an American pianist, keyboardist, and composer whose career spanned more than five decades. A founding member of the Jazz Crusaders, he helped shape the sound of modern jazz, jazz-funk, and smooth jazz through his distinctive blend of blues, gospel, and R&B influences. Sample’s work as a session musician and bandleader produced numerous acclaimed recordings, both with the Crusaders and as a solo artist. His compositions, including the enduring “One Day I’ll Fly Away,” have been widely covered and remain staples of the jazz repertoire.