American jazz pianist.
Born November 24, 1912, Austin, Texas, USA.
Died July 31, 1986, New Britain, Connecticut, USA.
Described by jazz critic Scott Yanow as "the definitive swing pianist."
Wilson's sophisticated and elegant style was featured on the records of many of the biggest names in jazz including Louis Armstrong, Lena Horne, Benny Goodman, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. With Goodman, he was perhaps the first well-known black musician to play publicly in a racially integrated group. In addition to his extensive work as a sideman, Wilson also led his own groups and recording sessions from the late 1920s until the 1980s.
Brother of Augustus Wilson. Briefly married to songwriter Irene Wilson in the 1930s.
