William Lamonte Parsons (November 26, 1939-May 25, 2022)
A jazz guitarist, Lamont Parsons, was born and educated in Danville, IL. He developed a love of music and a passion for jazz, which he referred to as African American classical music. Parsons taught himself to read and write music. The jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery was his biggest influence as a player. He played with many pioneering jazz musicians throughout Central Illinois, including Count Demon, Tony Zamora, and Cecil Bridgewater, among others, and composed many original tunes. Parson’s own group, The LaMonte Parsons Experience, performed in venues throughout the area.
LaMont Parsons Experience – Live
William Lamonte Parsons Obituary
Local Black Musicians, Famous and Unnoticed, Daily Illini, April 6, 1977