Biography
Winfield Albert Parker (June 21, 1942 – January 18, 2021) was an American soul and gospel singer-songwriter and saxophonist, born in Cooksville, Maryland and later based in Baltimore[2][3][4]. Initially drawn to music as a saxophonist rather than a vocalist, Parker began playing the instrument at age sixteen and joined his first group, the Veejays, during his time at Harriet Tubman High School[1]. His early career saw him performing with Sammy Fitzhugh & the Moroccans and recording his first singles in New York, before joining Little Richard’s band as the youngest member—a formative experience that exposed him to the wider world of professional touring and recording[1][4].
Parker’s reputation grew throughout the 1960s and 1970s as he transitioned from instrumentalist to frontman, recording for labels such as Ru-Jac and Arctic Records and developing a style rooted in northern soul and Philly soul[2][3]. He collaborated with Richard Dunbar as part of the Knight Brothers and later shifted focus to gospel music, especially after personal legal troubles led to a spiritual awakening and his ordination as a minister in 1981[1]. His gospel recordings, including "I’ve Come A Long Way" with Milt Matthews, marked a new chapter in his career, blending his soulful roots with spiritual themes and earning him recognition in the gospel community[1].
Parker’s legacy is defined by his versatility as both a saxophonist and singer, his contributions to the Baltimore soul scene, and his ability to bridge secular and sacred music. His work influenced the development of regional soul styles and left a lasting mark on both R&B and gospel traditions[2][4].
Fun Facts
- Winfield Parker was nicknamed 'Little Winnie' due to his small stature as a youth[1].
- He did not grow up singing in church, which was unusual for many soul and gospel artists of his era[1].
- Parker was ordained as a minister in 1981, later dedicating much of his career to gospel music[1].
- His transition to gospel was prompted by personal legal troubles, after which he promised to devote himself to spiritual music if he overcame his difficulties[1].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Little Richard - Parker played saxophone in Little Richard’s band, gaining professional experience and exposure to high-level touring and performance. (Live performances with Little Richard’s band) [Early 1960s]
Key Collaborators
- Sammy Fitzhugh & the Moroccans - Parker was a saxophonist and recorded his first singles with the group. (Linda Baby / Sadie Mae (Poplar label), I Feel Alright / Lovers’ Plea (Atco label)) [Circa 1960]
- Richard Dunbar (Knight Brothers) - Formed a duo with Dunbar, performing and recording as the Knight Brothers after the original member departed. (Performances and recordings as the Knight Brothers) [Late 1970s]
- Milt Matthews - Collaborated on Parker’s first gospel album. (I’ve Come A Long Way) [1980s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. Clean: Winfield Parker At Ru-Jac | 2016-03-25 | Album |
| Sending Up My Timber | 2003-01-01 | Album |
| Mr. Clean: Winfield Parker at Ru-Jac | 2016-03-25 | Album |
| Miracle | 2005-01-01 | Album |
| Sending Up My Timber | 2003-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Shake That Thing (Cooler Than Ice: Arctic Records and the Rise of Philly Soul)
- When I'm Alone (Mr. Clean: Winfield Parker At Ru-Jac)
- Wondering (Mr. Clean: Winfield Parker At Ru-Jac)
- I Wanna Be With You (Best of Winfield Parker)
- I Wanna Be with You (I Wanna Be with You / My Love for You)
- S.O.S. (Best of Winfield Parker)
- 28 Ways (Best of Winfield Parker)
- Sending Up My Timber (Sending Up My Timber)
- Mr Clean (Rare Soul: Groove & Grind 1963-1973)
- Oh My Love (Mr. Clean: Winfield Parker At Ru-Jac)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
winfield parker has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2025 | 19:10 | Mr. Clean (Part 1) | Blues and R&Bw/ Gentilly Jr. |