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Weather Report was a groundbreaking American jazz fusion band renowned for their innovative blend of jazz improvisation, funk rhythms, rock energy, and electronic experimentation.Formed in 1970 by Austrian keyboardist Joe Zawinul and American saxophonist Wayne Shorter, both alumni of Miles Davis's influential late 1960s bands, Weather Report became a defining force in jazz fusion. The band's sound evolved significantly over its 16-year lifespan, characterized by complex compositions, adventurous improvisation, and pioneering use of synthesizers and electronic effects. Known for a constantly shifting lineup, bassists Miroslav Vitouš (co-founder), Alphonso Johnson, and particularly Jaco Pastorius were pivotal members. Weather Report released 16 studio albums, achieving both critical acclaim and commercial success, including the Grammy-winning and platinum-selling album 'Heavy Weather' (1977). The band dissolved amicably in 1986 after Zawinul and Shorter decided to pursue solo projects.

• The band's name was reportedly inspired by a comment by drummer Billy Hart about the unpredictable nature of their music being like the weather.
• Bassist Jaco Pastorius joined in 1976, revolutionizing the band's sound with his fretless bass virtuosity and flamboyant stage presence; his tenure, particularly on 'Heavy Weather' and 'Black Market', propelled them to their greatest popularity.
• Weather Report was known for its intense, almost telepathic interplay on stage, with Shorter and Zawinul constantly pushing each other musically.
• Internal tensions, particularly surrounding Jaco Pastorius's increasingly erratic behavior due to mental health struggles and substance abuse in the early 1980s, led to his departure in 1982, significantly impacting the band's later direction.
• The band dissolved not due to acrimony but because Zawinul and Shorter mutually felt they had explored the concept fully and wanted to focus on individual endeavors.