In the 1970s, Bernhardt began to record solo LPS, including “Solo Piano,” “Free Smiles,” and “Floating.” The albums’ musical styles included jazz fusion, crossover jazz, and post-bop, portraying Bernhardt’s eclectic musical styles. During this time, he also joined the musical group Steps Ahead, a popular jazz fusion group. In addition to this, Bernhardt began to provide the piano parts for many other musician’s songs, including Don McLean, Kenny Burrell, Art Farmer, and Tim Hardin, among others.