Legendary saxophonist and founding member of the iconic rock band Chicago, known for his soulful and jazzy playing style that helped shape the band's signature sound.
Walter Parazaider, a founding member of the legendary rock band Chicago, is best known for being one-third of the band's brass-woodwind section alongside Lee Loughnane and James Pankow. As a multi-instrumentalist, Parazaider's mastery of wind instruments, including saxophone, flute, and clarinet, has been instrumental in shaping Chicago's distinctive sound.
Born on March 14, 1945, in Maywood, Illinois, Parazaider began playing the clarinet at the tender age of 9. His growing talent was groomed for a career as a professional orchestral musician, earning him a Bachelor of Arts degree in classical clarinet performance from DePaul University. However, it was the Beatles' hit "Got to Get You Into My Life" that inspired Parazaider to create a rock 'n' roll band with horns, a vision that would eventually become a reality.
Early practice sessions at Parazaider's house included guitarist Terry Kath and drummer Danny Seraphine, both friends from his teenage years. The addition of Lee Loughnane on trumpet, James Pankow on trombone, Robert Lamm on keyboards, and Peter Cetera on bass transformed the band into Chicago. Parazaider's primary musical role in the band has been playing woodwinds on James Pankow's horn arrangements, adding depth and complexity to the band's sound.
Although not a prolific writer, Parazaider's compositional contributions have been significant, including "It Better End Soon" (2nd Movement), "Free Country," "Aire," "Devil's Sweet," and "Window Dreamin." However, it's his performances on some of Chicago's most iconic tracks that have left an indelible mark on the band's legacy.
Parazaider's haunting flute solo in "Colour My World" has become synonymous with the band's signature sound, making it a staple at high school proms during the 1970s. His soaring soprano sax solo in "Just You 'n' Me" is another standout moment in Chicago's discography.
In 2008, Parazaider was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by DePaul University, recognizing his contributions to the world of music.
Walter Parazaider's impact on rock music cannot be overstated. As an integral part of Chicago's iconic sound, he has helped shape the band's trajectory, influencing generations of musicians and music lovers alike. His legacy continues to inspire, and his music remains an integral part of our collective cultural heritage.
81 Years Old
A legendary musician behind iconic hits, known for soulful vocals and masterful keyboard playing, creating timeless classics with a renowned rock band.
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A founding member of the rock band Chicago, known for his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals on hits like "25 or 6 to 4" and "Make Me Smile".
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A founding member and drummer of the rock band Chicago, known for his powerful and dynamic drumming style that helped shape the band's signature sound.
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Trombonist and songwriter for the legendary rock band Chicago, known for iconic hits like "25 or 6 to 4" and "Make Me Smile".
79 Years Old
Lead vocalist and trumpet player of the rock band Chicago, known for iconic hits like "25 or 6 to 4" and "Saturday in the Park".
