Biography

Gerald Wilson was born on September 4, 1918 in Shelby, Mississippi, USA. He was a composer, known for Redd Foxx (1977), The Pallbearer (1996) and Hollywood My Home Town (1965). He was married to Etta Jones and Josefina Villasenor. He died on September 8, 2014 in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Began on piano as a child, switching to trumpet after studies at Cass Technical College in Detroit.

From 1969 to 1975, he presented a radio series on jazz. At this time, he also worked extensively as a conductor/arranger for many top recording stars, including Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Ray Charles.

Came from a musical family: his father played clarinet and trombone, his mother was a pianiste.

First performed at the Plantation Club in Detroit, before joining the orchestra of Jimmie Lunceford, 1939-42, as a replacement for Sy Oliver. Served in the U.S. Navy, 1943-44, playing in a band led by Willie Smith.

Formed his first band in 1945, which folded after two years. He did not front another orchestra until 1961. During the 50's, he worked as composer and arranger for Ellington, Basie and Gillespie.