Walter Parazaider, founding member of Chicago, dies aged 81 following Alzheimer’s battle

Following his passing, Warner Music also released a statement in Walter Parazaider’s honor.

“Walt was a true master of woodwind instruments, with his saxophone, clarinet, and flute work playing integral parts in Chicago’s magnificent arrangements, including such indelible performances as his flute solo on Color My World and soprano sax solo on Just You ‘n’ Me.” Chicago and Walt joined Warner Records in 1982 with the immensely successful Chicago 16, and later began a decades-long relationship with Rhino Records that saw multiple anthologies, remastered deluxe editions, and a series of new releases that continued through Chicago’s twenty-fourth studio album, 2014’s Chicago XXXVI: Now.”

It continued, “Indeed, Walt was among the longest serving members of Chicago, from its earliest inception in 1966 to his retirement from the road in 2017. We pay tribute to his historic career and thank him for his noteworthy role in the history of popular music and this company. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family, his Chicago bandmates, his friends, and his millions of fans around the world.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with Walter Parazaider’s family and friends during this difficult time.