Alto saxophonist and bebop pioneer
Charlie Parker, New York City, c. 1949.

Courtesy of Herman Leonard Photography, LLC.

 

“Ko Ko”

Charlie Parker’s Reboppers

1945

This breakneck bebop classic, based on the harmonies of the popular dance tune, “Cherokee,” put the world on notice that there was a new way to play jazz. Recorded for Parker’s first album as a leader, “Ko Ko” showcased the rhythmic velocity and melodic inventiveness of Parker’s playing.