Melvin Sparks (1946–2011) was a seminal American guitarist whose soulful blend of jazz, blues, and funk left an indelible mark on the music world. Born in Houston, Texas, Sparks began his musical journey at age 11 and, by 13, was performing alongside B.B. King. In the 1960s, he toured with The Upsetters, backing legends like Little Richard and Sam Cooke. Relocating to New York, Sparks became a sought-after session musician for Blue Note and Prestige Records, collaborating with artists such as Lou Donaldson, Jack McDuff, and Charles Earland. His debut album, "Sparks!" (1970), showcased his dynamic style, characterized by rhythmic grooves and expressive melodies. Throughout his career, Sparks' innovative approach to the guitar influenced generations of musicians and solidified his legacy in the soul-jazz genre. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melvin_Sparks?utm_source=openai))