Born in Los Angeles, Willie Jones‘ earliest exposure to music was through his father, Willie Jones II, an accomplished and notable jazz pianist, who offered guidance and inspiration to his gifted son. He completed his academic training after receiving a full scholarship to the California Institute of the Arts where he studied under the tutelage of the legendary Albert “Tootie” Heath. Jones co-founded jazz band Black Note, influenced by the rich soulful energy of the West Coast bop movement.
From 1995 through 1998, he was a member of Arturo Sandoval’s band and is featured on Sandoval’s GRAMMY® award winning release Hot House. Subsequently, Jones recorded with Horace Silver on Jazz Has a Sense of Humor.