Charles Parham

'Truck'

Bass

Born: January 25, 1911 in Chicago, Illinois

Died: June 5, 2002 in Chicago, Illinois

Truck Parham, versatile bass player

Copyright © 2002 

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Charles Valdez 'Truck' Parham was a versatile bass player who cut his teeth with jazz virtuosos Art Tatum and Roy Eldridge in the 1930s, and went on to a solid career across a range of jazz styles. He acquired his nickname while a band boy for Zack Whyte, and was also a skillful footballer and boxer in his youth. He began on tuba, but switched to string bass, and took lessons from Walter Page. He played with Earl Hines's famous early-40s big band, and went on to work with a diverse group of leaders, including Jimmy Lunceford, Nellie Lutcher, Muggsy Spanier, Gigi Gryce, Louie Bellson and Art Hodes. He toured Europe with a group of jazz all stars in 1998.

JJA members are invited to submit a full obituary or appreciation.