The rare Steely Dan song that has a straightforward meaning. “A bird in flight” is the Kansas City-born Charlie “The Bird” Parker – the highly influential jazz saxophonist.
[Verse 1]
Savoy sides presents a new saxophone sensation
It's Parker's band with a smooth style of syncopation
Kansas city born and growing, you won't believe what the boys are blowin'
[Refrain]
You got to come on man and take a piece of Mister Parker's band
[Verse 2]
You'll be riding by, bareback on your armadillo
You'll be groovin' high or relaxin' at Camarillo
Suddenly the music hits you, it's a bird in flight that just can't quit you
[Refrain]
You got to come on man and take a piece of Mister Parker's band
[Bridge]
We will spend a dizzy weekend smacked into a trance
Me and you will listen to a little bit of what made the preacher dance
[Verse 3]
Bring your horn along and you can add to the pure confection
And if you can't fly you'll have to move in with the rhythm section
Either way you're bound to function, 52nd Street's the junction
[Refrain]
You got to come on man and take a piece of Mister Parker's
Clap your hands and take a piece of Mister Parker's
Come on man and take a piece of Mister Parker's band
Parker’s Band was written by Donald Fagen & Walter Becker.
Parker’s Band was produced by Gary Katz.
Steely Dan released Parker’s Band on Wed Feb 20 1974.