>> Maceo Parker
bio: Maceo Parker (born February 14, 1943) is a noted American funk and soul jazz saxophonist, best known for his work with James Brown in the 1960s. Parker was a prominent soloist on many of Brown's hit recordings, and a key part of his band, playing alto, tenor and baritone saxophones. Parker's rhythmic and rapid playing style draws on the earlier innovations of be-bopper Charlie Parker (no relation), and Cannonball Adderley, mixed with Brown's own innovations in funk music.
Contents [hide] 1 Biography 2 Discography 2.1 Solo albums 2.2 Select albums appeared on 2.3 Videos 3 External links
[edit] Biography Parker was born in Kinston, North Carolina in a musically-rich environment. His mother and father sang in a church and both his brothers are accomplished musicians (drums and trombones).
He and his brother, Melvin Parker, joined James Brown in 1964; in his book, Brown says that he originally wanted Melvin as his drummer but agreed to take Maceo under his wing as part of the deal.[citation needed] Parker, his brother Melvin, and a few of Brown's band members left to found Maceo & All the King's Men which toured for two years. In 1973, Parker returned to James Brown's band the J.B.'s. He also charted a single "Parrty - Part I" (#71 pop singles) with Maceo & the Macks that year. In 1975, Parker and some of Brown's band members, including Fred Wesley, left to join George Clinton's band Parliament.
Parker once again joined James Brown from 1984 to 1988. In the 1990s, Parker finally established a successful solo career. He has released seven solo records and plays 250 tour dates per year. His average play time on stage is more than two and a half hours.
In 1993, Parker made guest appearances on rap group De La Soul's album Buhloone Mindstate. In the late 1990s, Parker began contributing semi-regularly to recordings by Prince and accompanying his band, the New Power Generation, on tour. He also played on the Jane's Addiction track "My Cat's Name is Maceo" (named after him, or Perry Farrell's cat, or both), for their 1997 compilation album Kettle Whistle.
His current touring band includes bassist Rodney Skeet Curtis. They have been billed as "The greatest little funk orchestra on earth" or the "Million dollar support band".
Recenty performed in his hometown Kinston N.C. at the local NAACP building. Maceo is currently (Aug/Sept 2007) performing in Prince's backing band at his "21 nights" at the London O2 arena.
His 'gear' consists of a Selmer Mark VI (Alto) Saxophone together with a Selmer Brilhart 'Ebolin' #5 Mouthpiece to create the funky sound he's famous for
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