Ken Parker, legendary luthier and founder of Parker Guitars, passed away peacefully at his home on October 5, 2025 after a long, hard fought battle with cancer.
Reflecting on his career, Parker stated, “Throughout my life, I’ve done something that I love and am proud of – making guitars that advance the art, science, and craft of building far beyond traditional methods. Most importantly, it has been a true joy and especially gratifying experience to see my guitars in the hands of all of you gifted and aspiring players, and I thank you for that opportunity.”
Parker Guitars was founded in 1993 as a vehicle to enable the production, sales, and marketing of what was to become the trendsetting Parker Fly guitar, created by Parker. Utilizing a unique lightweight composite exoskeleton construction technique and an expanded sonic palette enabled through the addition of piezoelectric pickups, the Fly set Parker apart from the pack.
Around 30,000 Parker guitars were crafted in the original Massachusetts factory before the company was purchased by US Music in 2003. An expanded range of instruments were brought to market in this period, extending upon the original Parker Fly, Nitefly, and Fly Bass designs forged from Ken’s groundbreaking approach to guitar building.
“The entire industry mourns the loss of this great visionary. We encourage guitar builders all over the world to continue to honor his innovations and raise the bar he so kindly started,” said James Tsaptsinos, VP of Global Sales, JAM Music Group.
Everyone at JAM Industries USA would like to extend their deepest sympathies and condolences to Ken and Susan’s entire family during this difficult time.
