Melvin Parker

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Melvin Parker (born June 7, 1944, Kinston, North Carolina) is a drummer, brother of saxophonist Maceo Parker and was an important member of James Brown's band. Parker's drumming style was a major ingredient in James Brown's funk music innovations in the late 1960s. In 1964 and 1965 Parker was the drummer on three of Brown's most successful and influential recordings, "Out of Sight," "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag," and "I Got You (I Feel Good)."

Parker's first association with Brown ended when he was drafted in the mid-1960s. He was replaced in the band by Clyde Stubblefield and Jabo Starks. Parker rejoined the band in 1969, and appeared on the album Sex Machine. In 1970 Parker was part of the famous mutiny by the James Brown band. After leaving Brown, Parker went on to join his brother Maceo's band, Maceo & All the King's Men. He rejoined James Brown briefly in 1976, and played on Brown's hit single "Get Up Offa That Thing".

Parker toured and recorded with Maceo Parker into the 1990s. He is now a counselor, teacher and case worker for an educational program called Maryland's Tomorrow, while continuing to perform with Maceo and others.