Eumir Deodato - Rhapsody In Blue / Super Strut

Year Released: 1973
Genre: Jazz-Funk / Fusion

Description:
“Rhapsody In Blue / Super Strut” by Eumir Deodato, released in 1973 on CTI Records, captures the Brazilian keyboardist and arranger at the height of his jazz-funk creativity. His reinterpretation of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody In Blue” is lush and cinematic, fusing orchestral grandeur with electric Rhodes textures and tight funk rhythm.

The flip side, “Super Strut,” became one of Deodato’s signature grooves — a propulsive instrumental built on crisp percussion, syncopated bass, and soaring brass. Its infectious energy made it a favorite among DJs and sample-based producers. “Super Strut” was later sampled by artists including LL Cool J on “Ain’t Nobody” and The Notorious B.I.G. on “Long Kiss Goodnight,” reinforcing Deodato’s influence on hip-hop and breakbeat culture.

Together, these two tracks showcase Deodato’s gift for blending classical sophistication with deep funk rhythm — a hallmark of 1970s jazz fusion at its most vibrant.