If you are a fan of funk and soul jazz, you have undoubtedly heard of Maceo Parker. Born on February 14, 1943, in Kinston, North Carolina, Maceo Parker is a renowned American saxophonist, known for his collaboration with music legends like James Brown, George Clinton, and Prince.
An Impressive Musical Career
Maceo Parker began his musical career in 1962. He first worked with James Brown in the 1960s, where he was a leading soloist on many of Brown’s hit recordings. He played the alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones and was an essential part of his band. In 1970, Maceo, his brother Melvin, and a few members of Brown’s band left to form the group Maceo & All the King’s Men, which toured for two years.
In 1975, Maceo and some members of Brown’s band, including Fred Wesley, joined George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic group. Maceo rejoined James Brown from 1984 to 1988. Since the early 1990s, he has toured under his own name.
A Rich and Diverse Discography
Maceo Parker’s discography is as varied as his career. He has released 11 solo albums since 1990. His first album from this period, “Roots Revisited”, spent 10 weeks at the top of Billboard’s contemporary jazz charts. His 1992 live album, “Life on Planet Groove”, is considered his quintessential live album, marking his first collaboration with Dutch saxophonist Candy Dulfer.
Among his other notable albums are “Funky Music Machine” (1972) with Maceo & All the King’s Men, “Roots & Grooves” (2007) with the WDR Big Band, a tribute to Ray Charles, and “Soul Classics” (2012), also with the WDR Big Band. His latest album, “Soul Food: Cooking With Maceo” (2020), was released under the Mascot Label Group.
A Musician to Discover
Maceo Parker is a musician to discover for all lovers of funk and soul jazz. His music is dynamic, lively, and full of energy. Whether you are a longtime fan or a new listener, Maceo Parker’s music will get you moving and make you want to dance. So don’t hesitate, immerse yourself in Maceo Parker’s musical universe and let yourself be carried away by the groove!