In his short life, Parker was one of the most influential musicians in jazz, and together with Dizzy Gillespie, Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, he was the main architect of the modern jazz revolution of the 1940s known as bebop. Addicted to drugs and alcohol, and with a tangled private life, Parker died young, and a legend grew up about his tragic genius.

Chasin' the Bird is a completely revised and expanded edition of the short biography of Charlie Parker by Brian Priestley. First published in 1984, it quickly established itself as the most succinct, accurate and readable book on Parker. This edition, which is twice the length of the original, incorporates material which has come to light since the first edition was published. It also provides an expanded discussion of performances and recordings, with a complete discography, notes and bibliography.

CONTENTS:
1. Birdland
2. Body And Soul
3. The Jumpin' Blues
4. Now's The Time
5. Parker's Mood
6. Celebrity
7. I Remember You
8. The Song is You
9. Confirmation
Discography

"Brian Priestley has not just chased but captured the elusive Bird, illuminating the turbulent life and marvelous music with human and musical insight" - DAN MORGENSTERN, Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies

"Brian Priestley is one of the most accomplished jazz historians, critics, and biographers, and Chasin' the Bird is an indispensable gem - an ideal introduction to a major figure in twentieth century music and an inventive interpretation of Parker's life and art that will also engage veteran jazz lovers. The comprehensive discography is a major bonus, making this a handbook every Bird chaser will relish" - GARY GIDDINS

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