Charlie Parker

Charlie "Bird" Parker (August 29, 1920- March 12, 1955) was a famous jazz saxophonist who made huge contributions to jazz music.

Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Parker grew up listening to jazz bands like Count Basie and Bennie Moten.

Parker moved to New York City and, with Dizzy Gillespie, was critical in the development of bebop.

Parker was addicted to heroin for most of his life and died early.