Charlie's Wig, recorded November 4, 1947, is a Parker original based on the changes of When I Grow Too Old to Dream, performed by the Charlie Parker Sextet at approximately 190-195 BPM in B-flat with a 32-bar ABCB form. The expanded ensemble features J. J. Johnson on trombone alongside the standard quintet. Parker's one-chorus alto saxophone solo is followed by Johnson for one full chorus on trombone and Miles Davis for three-quarters of a chorus on trumpet. The ABCB form is an unusual structure that differentiates this tune from the more common AABA vehicles in Parker's repertoire, providing a less predictable harmonic pathway for the soloists. Johnson's full-chorus trombone solo is a highlight, demonstrating the agility and bebop fluency that made him the definitive voice on the instrument in the modern era. The three-horn front line of alto, trumpet, and trombone gives the ensemble passages a fuller, more arranged quality than Parker's standard quintet recordings. Charlie's Wig is a somewhat overlooked piece that rewards close listening.
