Chicago Saxophonist Walter Parazaider Dead at 81
Rolling Stone • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Walter Parazaider, founding member of Chicago and multi-instrumentalist, died at 81 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, confirmed by Rolling Stone.
- Parazaider was instrumental in forming Chicago in 1967, pioneering the integration of horns into rock music, and remained with the band until 2018 due to health issues.
- Chicago achieved major success in the 1970s with hits like “If You Leave Me Now” and overcame tragedy in 1978 when guitarist Terry Kath died accidentally.
- The band experienced creative shifts in the 1980s with producer David Foster and later a more democratic approach in the 1990s after Cetera’s departure, maintaining popularity as a live act.
- Parazaider and Chicago were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, where he reflected on their humble beginnings and enduring musical legacy.
