Alan Parker (musician)

Alan Parker (born 1944) is a British guitarist, composer, and arranger best known for his prolific work in the field of library music, film soundtracks, and commercial jingles.

Parker’s career began in the 1960s, initially as a session musician. He rapidly became one of the most in-demand guitarists in the UK, contributing to recordings by artists such as Blue Mink, Donovan, and Serge Gainsbourg.

However, he gained wider recognition for his extensive contributions to library music – also known as production music – for companies such as KPM Music, Bruton Music, and De Wolfe Music. His compositions in this genre are characterized by their catchy melodies, innovative arrangements, and sophisticated use of studio technology, often incorporating funk, rock, and orchestral elements. Tracks like "Sounds Orchestral" and "Hello Computer" are highly sought after by music enthusiasts and have been extensively sampled and re-used in television, film, and other media.

Beyond library music, Parker composed and performed music for numerous film and television productions. His film credits include Bugsy Malone (1976), The Stud (1978), and American Pop (1981). He has also composed themes and incidental music for various television programs.

Throughout his career, Alan Parker's contributions to library music and film soundtracks have had a lasting impact on popular culture, establishing him as a significant figure in the history of British music production.