Maceo Parker, born February 14, 1943, is an African-American soul jazz and funk saxophone player. He is best known for his contribution to James Brown’s distinctive sound. Born in Kinston, North Carolina, he was raised in a musically rich environment. His parents sang in church, and his brothers were both musicians (drums/trombones). Melvin Parker and he joined James Brown in 1964. Brown states that Melvin originally wanted Melvin to be his drummer, but he agreed to let Maceo take over as part of the deal. Maceo, Melvin, and a few other members of Brown’s bands left to start Maceo.
