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"Chameleon" is a groundbreaking jazz-funk composition by Herbie Hancock, featured on his 1973 album "Head Hunters." Here are some interesting facts about the song:

1. Genre Fusion:

   • "Chameleon" is known for its fusion of jazz, funk, and electronic music elements. It played a significant role in popularizing the jazz-fusion genre.

2. Electronic Innovation:

   • The song prominently features the use of synthesizers, particularly the ARP Odyssey synthesizer played by Herbie Hancock himself. The use of synthesizers was relatively new in jazz at the time, and "Chameleon" is considered one of the earliest examples of electronic instruments being incorporated into jazz music.

3. Influence on Hip-Hop:

   • The distinctive bassline of "Chameleon" has been widely sampled in hip-hop music, making it one of the most sampled jazz tracks in history. Artists such as De La Soul, Beastie Boys, and countless others have used the bassline in their own productions.

4. Album Success:

   • "Head Hunters," the album that features "Chameleon," became a commercial success and is one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time. It marked a departure from Hancock's earlier work and a shift towards a more accessible and groove-oriented sound.

5. Musical Structure:

   • The song is known for its repetitive and hypnotic bassline, played by Paul Jackson, which forms the backbone of the composition. The repetitive nature of the bassline allowed for extended improvisation by the other musicians.

6. Extended Versions:

   • In live performances, "Chameleon" often had extended versions that allowed the musicians, including Hancock on keyboards, to explore more improvisational aspects of the music. These live renditions sometimes featured different solos and variations.

7. Awards:

   • "Chameleon" and the "Head Hunters" album earned Herbie Hancock critical acclaim and several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Jazz Performance by a Group.

8. Cultural Impact:

   • The fusion of jazz and funk in "Chameleon" had a lasting impact on the direction of jazz music in the 1970s and beyond. It inspired a new generation of musicians to explore the possibilities of blending different genres.

"Chameleon" remains a classic in the jazz-fusion genre and continues to be celebrated for its innovation and influence on contemporary music.