Beauty and the Beast is a jazz fusion composition by Wayne Shorter, originally released in 1975 on the Native Dancer album from Columbia Records. The tune features Shorter on soprano saxophone with a notable lineup including Herbie Hancock on piano, Wagner Tiso on electric piano, Jay Graydon on guitar, Dave McDaniel on bass, Roberto Silva on drums, and Airto Moreira on percussion, produced by Jim Price. The piece blends lyrical melodies with intricate harmonies and adventurous improvisation, reflecting Shorter's distinctive approach. It has lived beyond the studio with live performances such as the Wayne Shorter Quartet at the North Sea Jazz Festival on 13 July 1986, documented by World of Jazz. Classified as jazz fusion, the track remains a notable example of Shorter's creative voice and a staple in jazz circles.
