Spyro Gyra Biography

Spyro Gyra is an American jazz fusion band that was originally formed in the early 1970s. With over 20 albums released and 10 million copies sold, they are among the most prolific as well as commercially successful groups of the scene. Among their most successful hit singles are "Shaker Song" and "Morning Dance".

Their music, which has been influential in the development of smooth jazz, combines jazz with elements of R&B, funk and pop music. Although generally considered to be more "jazz" than "smooth", Spyro Gyra's music has been criticized for being light-weight and for emphasizing melody over improvisation. They have nevertheless been praised as skilled instrumentalists and for their live performances.

With the exception of alto saxophonist, songwriter and founding bandleader Jay Beckenstein, the personnel has changed somewhat over time as well as between the studio and the live stage.

Spyro Gyra has received the following Grammy nominations: