Yellowjackets

A leading crossover jazz outfit, Yellowjackets have found success combining polished funk and R&B grooves with a strong post-bop- and fusion-influenced sound. Initially a vehicle for guitarist Robben Ford (who left the band in 1983), Yellowjackets rose to prominence in the early '80s and helped define the sound of smooth jazz along with bands like Spyro Gyra, the Rippingtons, and Special EFX. In addition to their commercial success, they picked up accolades including the Grammy for R&B Instrumental Performance for "And You Know That" off 1986's Shades, and the Grammy for Jazz ...