Biography
Wilbur Little demonstrated remarkable versatility on bass across numerous musical environments over the course of his professional life, excelling particularly as a member of an energetic rhythm section that expanded the limits of hard bop. Initially trained as a pianist, he transitioned to the bass following his military service. In 1949, Little relocated to Washington D.C., collaborating there with Sir Charles Thompson, Leo Parker, the R&B-ish Griffin Brothers, singer Margie Day, and Paul "Hucklebuck" Williams between 1951 and 1953. He dedicated several years to a trio backing various guest artists such as Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Recognition came to the bassist via a three-year engagement in J.J. Johnson's quintet from 1955 to 1958. Working independently thereafter, Little appeared alongside numerous leading figures like Tommy Flanagan, Sonny Stitt, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Kenny Burrell, Elvin Jones, and Clark Terry. He journeyed to Japan alongside Duke Jordan in 1976 prior to settling in Amsterdam the following year. Later on, Little's associations included Charles Tolliver, Archie Shepp—recording together in 1985—Clifford Jordan, and Barry Harris, to name a few. Never heading a recording date of his own, he nevertheless contributed to sessions by various performers across his career, among them Bobby Jaspar, Tommy Flanagan, Randy Weston, and Al Haig.
Albums
