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The Jazz Crusaders, an American jazz group formed in Los Angeles in 1960, originated from a group of school friends in Houston, Texas. They began playing together in a high school marching band and initially formed the Swingsters in 1954. While attending Texas Southern University, they met a trombone player and, along with two others, created the Modern Jazz Sextet. In 1958, the future members of the Jazz Crusaders—Sample, Felder, Hooper, and Henderson—dropped out of college and moved to Los Angeles, where they performed as The Nite Hawks. In 1960, they transitioned back to jazz and formed the Jazz Crusaders as a quintet, securing a contract in 1961. As the 1960s progressed, their hard bop style evolved to incorporate more soul-jazz elements. In 1971, they shortened their name to The Crusaders, and throughout the 1970s, they became funkier, thanks in part to the guitar vamps of a new member. Their best-known hit, "Street Life," helped bring guest vocalist attention. The group is also recognized for backing musicians on over 200 gold records, including artists like Steely Dan, Curtis Mayfield, Joni Mitchell, Ray Charles, and Van Morrison.

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