Kareem-Abdul Jabbar Writes Foreword For Charlie Parker ‘Chasin’ The Bird’ OGN
by James Ferguson
Z2 Comics’ upcoming graphic novel, Chasin’ the Bird just got a little cooler. As if an entire comic paying tribute to the live of jazz musician Charlie Parker wasn’t enough, the publisher has announced it will feature a foreword by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Abdul-Jabbar says:
Chasin’ the Bird, a phenomenal graphic novel…becomes an archeological dig into the legend that was Bird—and the man that was Charlie Parker. What is especially impressive is how Dave Chisholm and Peter Markowski capture in words and art, the spirit of Bird’s music, rooted in the traditions of classic music but reshaped into his own—and their own—personal expression. It is the universal quest each person embarks on to find their unique voice.
Chasin’ the Bird, written and illustrated by Dave Chisholm with Peter Markowski, chronicles Parker’s time in the west coast, bumming around Los Angeles, showing up at jam sessions, crashing on people’s couches, causing havoc in public places, and recording some of the most groundbreaking tracks of his career.
Publisher Josh Frankel added:
This is one of the greatest projects we have ever had the privilege to be a part of. The passion that Dave and Peter put into this work is unparalleled, and to add the words of one of the most prolific cultural critics, let alone one of the greatest athletes in history is truly humbling for all of us. We are certain that this is destined to be one of the graphic novels of the year, if not a high watermark for the decade ahead.
Chasin’ the Bird is set for release in September 2020. It’s available in a standard edition and a deluxe edition featuring a limited vinyl, art prints, and a slipcover. Both versions are available for pre-order at the Z2 Comics online store.
