Jazz History

Charlie Parker is born

Aug 29, 1920

He was born in Kansas City, Kansas. He was an only child. Charlie was introduced to music in Kansas City and he especially loved the saxophone.

Parker Joins Jay McShann's territory band

Jan 1, 1938

The exact date of him joining the band is not listed but during this time he joined McShann's band who was a pianist. They played in lots of nightclubs and other places in Chicago and New York. They even toured the southwestern part of the United States.

Charlie Parker records "greatest jazz session ever"

Nov 26, 1945

Parker was recording for Savoy records. During this session he recorded well known songs like "Ko-Ko" and "Now's the Time." This music eas considered Bepop.

Charlie Parker Dies

Mar 12, 1955

Also known as "Yardbird," Charlie Parker is known as a great jazz saxophonist. He died and New York. His cause of death could have been from one of a number of issues.

Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame

Jun 29, 1979

Charlie Parker was inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame sometime during 1979. He left a great legacy during his time but suffered many issues as well. He will be remember as a great saxophonist of his time. There is a memorial is Kansas City just for him.