Biography

Born in Ohio in 1937, Nancy Wilson grew up singing in church choirs and high school competitions. After being heard by a television caster, she was invited to sing on a TV show on a weekly basis. After pursuing an Education degree at Ohio Central State University, she earned a spot in Rusty Bryant’s Carolyn Club Band. She moved to New York City afterwards, and met the great Cannonball Adderley. Through him, Nancy met her future manager John Levy. Levy went on to get Wilson signed to Capitol Records. Shortly after, Nancy Wilson released her most popular recording “Guess Who I Saw Today” and became a star on the jazz scene. Throughout her entire career, Wilson was able to release over 60 albums, and won Grammy awards for her albums such as “How Glad I Am” and “The Nancy Wilson Show”. Wilson’s legacy was clear, influential, and impactful. She was deservingly inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame. After a long and fruitful life, Nancy Wilson passed away in 2018.