Stan Wilkerson

As singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Stan Wilkerson points out on his debut solo disc, it’s a good thing to have a private place to commune with God. It’s also good, though, that someone with as many gifts as Wilkerson should come out of that quiet place and make his joyful noises known to all within earshot, which is just what he does on Secret Place. Using a creamy and fluid vocal style reminiscent of jazzy crooners like Al Jarreau and Michael Franks, Wilkerson stamps his diverse songs with warm personality on eleven songs of gratitude, humility and surrender. When he layers his airy voice, as he does on such numbers as the title tune and “Sky So Blue,” the effect closely resembles the complex interplay of the a cappella vocal group Take 6. Also evident in his rich and angular chord voicings is the influence of Stevie Wonder, whose swaying “Isn’t She Lovely” forms the foundation for the jubilant soul-meets-reggae strains of “You Still Take Time For Me.”
Wilkerson’s musical literacy, diversity and creativity become increasingly evident with each track; his trombone work on “Milk and Honey” is as commanding as it is facile, while he shines on the keyboard-generated bass that introduces the rapid-fire Latin-jazz romp “No Mystery.” He plays virtually every instrument on the record, and while this approach leads to some sterility at times, his drum and bass parts lock together like a steel-plated and magnetized jigsaw puzzle, confirming his ear for fine musical detail.
Wilkerson, a pro trombonist who has enjoyed a long affiliation with jazz trumpet maestro Wynton Marsalis, steps out on this recording as a singer, musician and arranger of consummate skill. On a strictly musical level, Secret Place succeeds. However, the disc would have benefited greatly from production and engineering assistance. It's a rare individual who can create a top-flight recording with just one set of ears, though his work here easily serves as a better-than-average demonstration of his full potential, once placed in the hands of one as technically masterful as Wilkerson is musically adept. Clearly, he has the makings of a winner on Secret Place, an album that unveils a worshipper's heart beating powerfully behind a music maker's head and hands.
- UMC.org

A truly talented vocalist and songwriter, Stan first came to national and international prominence as a professional trombonist. Utilizing his unique ability to play in a wide range of musical settings, he has wowed audiences throughout Europe and the United States as a soloist and sideman, performing with the likes of Wynton Marsalis, Stevie Wonder, Yo-Yo Ma, Wynona Judd, Aretha Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, The Baltimore Symphony, and The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, to name a few. His second recording, "Speak to My Soul," is a project Stan wrote and produced after transitioning from freelance artist, professor, and studio musician to full-time music ministry. The eclectic compilation of songs is an honest, intimate look at life as a worshipper, complete with its challenges and triumphs.

Stan is currently the Worship Arts Pastor at Bethel Church in Tampa, Florida. He has appeared on numerous television programs and films, and has performed at two US Presidential inaugurations and other events for The President of the United States and other world leaders. He is available for leading worship, full concerts, and conference opportunities. He is accepting dates in 2009 and beyond. For more information on bringing this gifted artist to your church or event, please call 813-389-9560, or email stanwilkerson@earthlink.net.

- Sanctified Slide Publishing

“…A worshipper’s heart beating powerfully behind a music maker’s head and hands.”

-Steve Morley, Freelance Music Journalist
College Grove, Tennessee

“As a musician, Stan is virtually without equal…Seldom will you find any person whose abilities are so complete and diverse.”

-Dr. John Drew, Professor of Music
Florida State University

“…One gets the sense that God is speaking directly to those fortunate enough to be among the audience. …Stan truly brings glory to Christ with his music.”

-Marty Wilkes, Pastor
Crossroads Baptist Church, Douglas Georgia

“…Immensely talented…a versatile player who is comfortable in many different genres of music…a man with unquestionable personal integrity and character.”

-James Olin, Principal Trombone
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Faculty, Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University
- Endorsements