Willie Wilson

Willie Wilson

Willie Wilson has led a colorful and largely successful life. Within just four short decades, this African-American product of the cotton and sugar cane fields of Louisiana, has managed to create a most impressive multimillion dollar empire, a journey that began with only twenty cents in his pocket, and big dreams in his head. Today, his fortunes have turned a full 360 degrees. He had been penniless and stranded numerous times, and he now personally donates hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to small churches and community programs across the United States. Having gone through terminations from numerous jobs, he went on to become owner of five McDonald’s restaurants within two and a half years; founder and producer of the first nationally syndicated African American gospel entertainment program on commercial television, now in its 20th year; and founder and CEO of one of America’s fastest growing international medical supply companies. His family life had also undergone major dips. But in spite of failed relationships, a son murdered in gang violence, and prostate cancer, today he enjoys a positive lifestyle with a fruitful marriage. Over the years, Wilson has received numerous awards including the Outstanding Store Award and Top Sales Performer Award for his hard work. He is the recipient of a Doctor of Divinity from Mt. Carmel Theological Seminary, A Doctor of Humane Letters from Chicago Baptist Institute, Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism from Swisher Bible College and Doctorate in Humanitarianism from Denver Institute of Urban Studies and Adult College. Wilson has also sung with the legendary Norfleet Brothers, after which he produced four recordings: “I’m So Grateful”, “Lord Don’t Let Me Fail”, “Just A Closer Walk With Thee”, “Through It All” and “I’ll Fly Away”. His latest CDs, “Somewhere Listening” and “It is I that Gain the More” is available online and through Willie Wilson Productions. Wilson recently won an Emmy for his performance on SINGSATION for Best Performing Artist in 2012. Wilson, who has lived in the Chicago area since 1965, is the father of four grown children and lives with his wife of twelve years. His gains that comes off hard work, perseverance despite extreme difficulty, and enduring faith. After all, a beautiful pearl is only made through an oyster’s pain and suffering.