Born in Norco, Louisiana, Gerard W. began playing saxophone in his youth and by high school was a talented performer, appearing with the District VI Honor Jazz and Concert Bands of New Orleans and making the Louisiana All-State Band in 1983. After high school, he attended Loyola University on scholarship, studying jazz under pianist Ellis Marsalis. After relocating to Los Angeles in 1989, Gerard W. quickly found work touring and/or recording with a bevy of big-name artists, including such luminaries as Jeff Lorber, Kenny Garrett, Najee, Dave Koz, and many others. In 2004, he released his debut album, Fnkysax, followed by Perseverance in 2006. In 2011, Gerard W. delivered his third solo album, the romantic Before It's Gone. ~ Matt Collar