In 1939, he returned to the United States, where he remained until 1951, when he moved to Paris, France. The artist remained there until he died in 1954.
Wilson attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. and, in the 1930s, worked in New York City at nightclubs in the area.
Wilson worked extensively in England as a member of local groups, and recorded with trumpeter Nat Gonella.
Wilson was a boogie-woogie and stride pianist.
In the liner notes of the CD box l'intégrale Django reinhardt - vol 2 he is quoted as being accompanist of French singer Jean Sablon, together with guitarist Django Reinhardt on two sides recorded on November 1, 1935 in Paris.