Dean Parks

Soul Country #11

Airdate Aug 3, 2025

Podcast 36:01

Recorded in New Orleans, LA

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Description

If you’ve heard Steely Dan – you’ve heard the guitar artistry of Dean Parks. His licks grace “Peg,” “Josie,” “Haitian Divorce” and “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number.” In this exclusive episode, Dean shares stories from his collaborations with music giants like Eric Clapton, Crosby & Nash, Lyle Lovett and Johnny Rivers. Discover how he became a key player on The Sonny and Cher Show and hear his advice for aspiring guitarists. We wrap up with a stunning improvised original performance, showcasing Parks’ tasty playing. Don’t miss this deep dive into the career of a guitar legend whose riffs helped define an era. Tune in to Soul Country for an unforgettable journey through music history with Dean Parks!

More about Dean Parks

Weldon Dean Parks, born December 6, 1946, in Fort Worth, Texas, is a distinguished session guitarist and record producer whose career spans decades of musical innovation. Early on, he played with the North Texas State One O'clock Lab Band, refining his jazz and fusion skills. In 1980, Parks co-founded Koinonia, a Christian Jazz Fusion band, highlighting his genre-spanning talent. His inventive guitar work shines on Steely Dan's "Haitian Divorce," where he used a Talkbox to craft a unique chicken clucking sound. Parks has collaborated with artists like Michael Jackson, Bread, David Foster, and Gordon Lightfoot, contributing to their iconic albums. His work extends to film and television, with credits on soundtracks for The Jungle Book, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Bowfinger, and The Notebook. Parks showcased his multi-instrumental prowess on Viktor Krauss' 2007 album II, playing various stringed instruments. His enduring influence in music reflects a commitment to creativity and excellence, making him a revered figure in the industry.

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