Formed in the 1940s, the free-wheeling ensemble gained prominence for its dynamic performances and tight arrangements that blended traditional big band sounds with modern jazz and Afro-Cuban influences. In 1960, Wilson formed a Los Angeles-based band that began a series of critically acclaimed recordings for Pacific Jazz and Liberty. The band played Wilson’s original music as well as adventurous arrangements of pop songs du jour, by Nina Simone, The Doors and Ashford & Simpson. WIlson and his big band performed well into the 2010s until Wilson passed away at age 96.