Alan Parker
Biography
Alan Frederick Parker (born August 26, 1944, in Matlock, Derbyshire, England) is a distinguished English guitarist and composer. Renowned for his extensive work as a session musician and his contributions to film and television scores, Parker's career spans several decades and showcases a remarkable versatility in musical styles.
Early Life and Musical Training
Parker's musical journey began with classical training under the tutelage of the esteemed guitarist Julian Bream at London's Royal Academy of Music. This foundation in classical guitar provided him with the technical proficiency and musical insight that would later inform his diverse career in popular and media music.
Session Musician and Collaborations
In the late 1960s, Parker emerged as a sought-after session guitarist in London's vibrant music scene. He played with various bands and artists, including Blue Mink, The Congregation, CCS (Collective Consciousness Society), and the French singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg. Parker also formed his studio session bands, such as Hungry Wolf and Ugly Custard, further showcasing his adaptability and creative range.
Much of Parker's session work went uncredited, but he has been recognized for his contributions to notable recordings. These include Donovan's "Hurdy Gurdy Man," The Walker Brothers' "No Regrets," David Bowie's "1984," Mike Batt's "The Ride to Agadir," and the Top of the Pops theme music version of "Whole Lotta Love".
Film and Television Composition
Transitioning into composition, Parker applied his musical talents to scoring for film and television. His television credits encompass a range of British series, including "Angels," "Minder," "One Summer," "The Glory Boys," "Dempsey and Makepeace," "French Fields," "Room at the Bottom," "Red Fox," ITN's "News at Ten," and the BBC series "Walking with Cavemen" and "Coast."
In the realm of cinema, Parker composed scores for films such as "Jaws 3-D" (1983), "American Gothic" (1988), "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" (1993), and "Alex Rider: Stormbreaker" (2006). His ability to craft evocative musical landscapes has made him a respected figure in the industry.
Personal Anecdotes and Legacy
An intriguing aspect of Parker's personal history involves his connection to legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix. In March 1970, Hendrix gifted Parker a 1951 Epiphone FT-79 acoustic guitar, which Parker later used in various sessions. This guitar, bearing the initials "A. Parker," was eventually auctioned and remains a testament to Parker's place in music history.
