Garland Wilson


Garland Lorenzo Wilson was an American jazz pianist born in Martinsburg, West Virginia, perhaps best known for his work with Nina Mae McKinney. Wilson was a boogie-woogie and stride pianist.

Life and career

Garland Wilson was born in Martinsburg, West Virginia in 1909.
Wilson attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. and in the 1930s worked in New York City at nightclubs in the area. In 1932 the pianist joined Nina Mae McKinney on a European tour. Wilson worked extensively in England as a member of local groups, and recorded with trumpeter Nat Gonella. In the liner notes of the CD box l'intégrale Django reinhardt - vol 2 he is quoted as being accompanist of French singer Jean Sablon together with guitarist Django Reinhardt on two sides recorded on November 1, 1935 in Paris. In 1939 he returned to the United States, where he remained until 1951, when he moved to Paris, France. The artist remained there until he died in 1954.

Select discography

With Charlie Lewis and Herman Chittison
With Mae Barnes