"Growing up in Houston, and following in the footsteps of an older brother, Sparks began playing guitar at a young age and was only 13 when played with B.B. King. He later was a member of Little Richard’s band. Eventually, Sparks relocated to New York and hooked in with Lou Donaldson, adding a funky, soulful twist to Donaldson’s groove-heavy jazz. He also backed jazz luminaries such as David “Fathead” Newman, Hank Crawford, Reuben Wilson and “Big” John Patton, among others." - From an interview with soul jazz pioneer Melvin Sparks in 2002 by Liner Notes

Enjoy the funky sounds of the late great guitarist Melvin Sparks as he lays the groove down with his band, live at Wetlands on June 14, 1998.