Born on November 1, 1958 in Wilmington, North Carolina, Willie and his family moved to Philadelphia when he was only 6 months
old. Raised in the tradition of Philadelphia saxophonists, he was performing and recording professionally with local acts by the age of
"12". Locally he had become the most talked about youth in many years. Upon High School graduation ( No.1 in his school class ),
Willie studied classical saxophone with Marshall Taylor and did extensive performances with many diverse ensembles. Attending the Philadelphia College of the Performing Arts by day, he persued his passion, "Jazz", by night. Performing with local organ
trios including, Don Patterson, Groove Homes, Charlie Earland , Trudy Pits, and others. While leading his band in Philadelphia he was discovered by alto saxophonist, Bobby Watson. Encouraged to take on New York City, he jumped at the chance. He began to perform with Art Blakey, Jackie Byard, Sam Rivers, Young Lions etc.
His big break came with "Taylor's Wailers", a Quintet formed by the late drummer, Arthur Taylor. During that time, he also worked around New York City and toured with Clifford Jordan's Big Band, Mingus Dynasty and a host of others,including,a long and fruitful collaboration with T.S. Monk. His most recent sideman endeavor as musical director with the Mighty Pirate Orchestra, led by Papo Vazquez ,a brilliant, Puerto Rican-Philly born trombonist, composer, and arranger, features him prominently on disc and in live solo context.
Willie currently works and records with his own ensembles. After recording 4 critically acclaimed discs as a leader, he has made his mark as an award winning performer, composer ,arranger and teacher.
Wilie Williams Latest CD, "Comet Ride", is out now!
