Don Palmer (7)

Born in Camden, New Jersey in 1939, Palmer learned music at an early age from Camden music teacher Michael Guerra. Skilled at a number of reed instruments, he learned quickly and by the age of 14 was playing with local combos in New Jersey. By 16 he was touring with bands around the country, and counted such influences as Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt and Louis Jordan. Palmer recorded his first album Finger-Buster!! for New Jersey-based jazz and pop label Vernon Records in 1962, showing skillful technique in terms of speed, dexterity and composition. Four years earlier, he made a name for himself on the stage by teaming up with fellow Camden artist Reno Righi for a musical comedy act that toured with Louis Jordan and played top showrooms around the country.