Born in Cooksville Maryland, Parker did not have the classic musical upbringing that so many of 60s and 70s soul artists had, which begins with singing in church and high school groups. In fact he did not enter the music world until he was around 16 years old and then ít was as a saxophone player. After having played with some local groups Parker was signed to Little Richard´s band and toured with them for a couple of years. When he returned to Maryland again he started singing as well and was signed to Rufus Mitchell´s Ru-Jac records out of Baltimore.