Teddy Wilson

Date of Birth: November 24, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: July 31, 1986

Biography

Theodore Shaw “Teddy” Wilson was an American jazz pianist born on November 24, 1912, and passed away on July 31, 1986. Wilson is widely regarded as one of the most influential jazz pianists of the swing era, known for his elegant and sophisticated playing style. He grew up in Tuskegee, Alabama, where his parents were professors at the Tuskegee Institute. Wilson’s talent for music became apparent at an early age, and he went on to study music at Talladega College. Wilson’s career took off in the 1930s when he began recording with Benny Goodman, making history as part of one of the first racially integrated jazz groups. He later formed his own band, performing and recording with some of the most prominent jazz musicians of his time, including Billie Holiday, Lester Young, and Ella Fitzgerald. Wilson’s contributions to jazz were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his lifetime.

5 Interesting Facts about Teddy Wilson

1. Teddy Wilson was one of the first African American musicians to perform regularly in public with a racially integrated group.

2. He played on many of Billie Holiday’s recordings, helping to craft some of her most memorable performances.

3. Wilson was a member of the Benny Goodman Trio and Quartet, which were groundbreaking in their racial integration during the 1930s.

4. He was known for his impeccable technique and light, graceful touch on the piano, which influenced many future jazz pianists.

5. In addition to his performing career, Wilson was a respected educator, teaching at the Juilliard School in New York City.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Teddy Wilson

1. “If you can’t play in time and be relaxed, you’re not playing jazz.”

2. “Jazz is the most fun you can have with your clothes on.”

3. “Swing is not a kind of music. It’s a kind of feeling.”

4. “You have to know the rules before you can break them. That’s what I was taught, and that’s what I teach.”

5. “The piano is a percussion instrument, and it should be treated as such.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Teddy Wilson’s highest net worth achieved was estimated to be around $1 million.

Children

Teddy Wilson had two sons, Theodore Wilson Jr. and Steven Wilson, who both followed in their father’s musical footsteps to some extent, with Steven becoming a noted jazz bassist.