Aside from being one of the most inventive musicians of all time, Charlie Parker was known for his quick sense of humour.
In one of only two pieces of video footage known to exist of Bird, he’s seen laughing as Coleman Hawkins attempts to mime to a pre-recorded solo.
As the clip comes to an end, someone off-camera seemingly fails to see the funny side, and Parker is quickly sent back to his cigarette, straight-faced…!
The video was filmed in 1950, at a high point in Parker’s career.
Celebrated by both his peers and the bebop-loving public, he’d recorded the successful Charlie Parker with Strings album the year before, and seen the New York jazz club Birdland named in his honour.
For fans of the saxophonist, and jazz history in general, it’s a rare treat to see him as well as hearing him!
Looking for more Charlie Parker? Check out our pick of his 10 essential records.