Edward Wilkerson Jr.
Edward L. Wilkerson Jr. is more than a musician—he’s a sonic storyteller, a jazz visionary who paints with notes instead of colors. A composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and educator, Wilkerson has left an indelible mark on Chicago’s creative music scene and beyond, pushing the boundaries of sound across continents. As the mastermind behind 8 Bold Souls and Shadow Vignettes, Wilkerson has led ensembles that defy convention—one a razor-sharp octet, the other a sprawling 25-piece juggernaut incorporating dance, poetry, and visual art. His large-scale composition Defender was commissioned by the Lila Wallace/Reader’s Digest Fund and showcased at BAM’s Next Wave Festival, cementing his reputation as a force of artistic innovation. His music—heard on over 30 recordings, including two film soundtracks—resonates with the boldness of Duke Ellington, the experimental spirit of the AACM, and the unshakable pulse of Chicago’s jazz lineage. His albums, including Birth of a Notion and 8 Bold Souls, have been hailed as essential listening, blending meticulous composition with fiery improvisation. A pivotal figure in the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), Wilkerson has shaped generations of artists, teaching composition and even serving as AACM president. His collaborations span a dazzling range, from Roscoe Mitchell and George Lewis to Aretha Franklin and The Temptations, always bringing his signature depth and inventiveness. While his musical journey has taken him across the U.S., Europe, Japan, and the Middle East, Wilkerson’s creativity isn’t confined to the stage—when he’s not orchestrating new sonic landscapes, he’s navigating the skies, racing drones with the same precision and thrill that define his music.
