Known for his two-decade-long stand as the saxophonist in James Brown’s band, Parker is one of funk’s most definitive horn blowers. When Brown yelled out, “Come on Maceo! Blow your horn!,” Parker did not disappoint.

Audiences may have a new-found appreciation for his upbeat outlook in these uncertain times.

“I really enjoy entertaining,” Parker told Pollstar, “but it means more to me now because I can say that, hopefully, through the music, through the show, through the performance, I can also try to promote love and peace and harmony and togetherness, try to uplift people and give them something to feel good about.”

In his 30-plus year career, he has been a driving force within the funk movement, always at the forefront of the scene. He’s developed a style distinctly his own and is revered for it.

Recent years have found Parker touring with an eclectic mix of artists. In 1999, he joined DIY queen Ani DiFranco for a summer of shows and opened a few nights for the Dave Matthews Band prior to that.

Typically, Parker headlines more than 200 performances a year worldwide, spreading the funk and making the audience sweat. Whether he’s playing Dusseldorf or D.C., when Maceo’s in the house, everybody dances.

“Somebody will say, ‘Everybody move from side to side,’ like I do from time to time, or, ‘Shake everything you got.’ I think that we as humans need this,” Parker said.