Charles McPherson (born July 24, 1939)[1] is an American jazz alto saxophonist born in Joplin, Missouri, United States; raised in Detroit, Michigan; and now lives in San Diego, California.

He worked intermittently with Charles Mingus from 1960 to 1974, and as a performer leading his own groups.

[1] McPherson also was commissioned to help record ensemble renditions of pieces from Charlie Parker, on the 1988 soundtrack for the film Bird.

[1] In 2020, the JazzTimes magazine readers’ poll named McPherson Artist of the Year, and also selected his album Jazz Dance Suites as Best New Release.

[2] With Barry Harris With Charles Mingus With others