What is the main characteristic of jazz fusion?

The main characteristic of jazz fusion is the blending of jazz with other genres, primarily rock and funk. This genre emerged in the late 1960s and 1970s, when musicians started experimenting by integrating the rhythms, harmonies, and instrumental approaches from rock and funk into traditional jazz forms. This collaboration led to a distinctive sound characterized by electric instruments, amplified sounds, and a rhythmic emphasis that often highlighted groove and beat, drawing greater appeal from a wider audience.

While the use of orchestral instruments, solo improvisation, and classical elements may appear in jazz fusion compositions or influence certain artists, they do not define the genre in the same fundamental way that the combination of jazz with rock and funk does. Jazz fusion is primarily recognized for its innovative approach to melding diverse musical styles, resulting in a fresh and dynamic sound that reflects both the improvisatory essence of jazz and the energetic characteristics of rock and funk music.