Junior Parker, born Herman Parker Jr. on March 27, 1932, near Bobo, Mississippi, was a renowned American blues singer and harmonica player. Known for his "honeyed" and "velvet-smooth" voice, Parker was a pivotal figure in the development of blues and R&B music. He grew up in West Memphis, Arkansas, where he was influenced by and worked with notable blues artists such as Sonny Boy Williamson II and Howlin' Wolf.

In the early 1950s, Parker formed his band, the Blue Flames, and was discovered by Ike Turner, leading to his first recordings. His early work with Sun Records produced hits like "Feelin' Good," "Love My Baby," and "Mystery Train," the latter of which was famously covered by Elvis Presley. Parker's music became a staple of the rockabilly genre.

Parker later signed with Duke Records, where he achieved further success with tracks like "Next Time You See Me" and "Driving Wheel." He toured extensively with Bobby "Blue" Bland, contributing to the Blues Consolidated Revue. Despite a decline in commercial success after leaving Duke in 1966, Parker continued to explore new musical territories, including collaborations with jazz organist Jimmy McGriff and covers of Beatles songs.

Junior Parker passed away on November 18, 1971, in Blue Island, Illinois, at the age of 39. His contributions to blues and R&B were recognized with his induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2001 and the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame. Parker's legacy endures through his influential recordings and the artists he inspired.