Gerald Wilson
#191,948 Most Popular
About
Multi-faceted musician and educator who blossomed during his time with the Jimmie Lunceford orchestra in 1939. His composition "Hi Spook" was influenced by the version of "Caravan" recorded by Duke Ellington.
Before Fame
He wrote arrangements for Sarah Vaughan, Ray Charles, Julie London, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, and many others.
Trivia
He taught at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he was highly respected, being named Teacher of the Year at one point.
Family Life
He and his Mexican-American wife Josefina Villasenor Wilson had three daughters, Jeri, Teri, and Nancy Jo, and one son, Anthony.
Associated With
His composition "Yard-Dog Mazurka" influenced "Intermission Riff," Stan Kenton's classic.
