Vernon was originally from Raleigh, NC. where he began his musical career. He attended Morgan State College in Baltimore, earning a BA in music, and was a member of the group Strider’s Riders. After serving in the military, he went on to perform with many great artists including Jackie Wilson, Baby Washington, Ethel Ennis, Dinah Washington, and others. With local groups including local groups the Night Hawks (‘50s), Fuzzy Kane Trio, Jazz Experience (‘70s), The Vernon Wolst Quartet, Vernon & the Blues Men, his Big Blues Band, Greg Thompkins group (‘00s), he performed at local clubs including Sportsmen’s Lounge, Bird Cage, Uptown, Club Casino, Moe’s Lounge, Caton Castle, The Short Stop…
His jazz CD “Say It Again with Words and Music” Vernon provided vocals, featuring a backing band of Wade Beach (piano –Air Men of Note…), Percy Smith (drums –Shyndell’s, Bill Byrd Trio), Paul Carr (sax), and Jackie Hairston (B-3 organ, strings –Arnold Sterling Group…).
Aside from music, while working for Urban Services Agency in Baltimore, Vernon founded Project Survival, an organization to mentor youngsters with education and sports. Vernon passed away at age 75 on August 22, 2011.
Also see Vernon Wolst Big Blues Band.
19**(CD) (indie) Say It Again With Words and Music
