Wilfred Middlebrooks
July 13, 1933 – March 13, 2008 
Wilfred Middlebrooks was a one-time bassist for Ella Fitzgerald. Middlebrooks began playing bass at a very young age and by the time he was just 15, he was traveling the region as part of a vaudeville troupe. During his early 20s, he moved to Los Angeles where he began making a name for himself in the jazz community. By the time he was 25, he was performing live and recording as part of Fitzgerald’s band with whom he’d stay for many years. Wilfred Middlebrooks died in his home from heart failure on March 13, 2008.
What a wonderful man. A real gentleman. I had the opportunity to work with Wilfred back in 2001 at the Gardenia Room. I just found out of his passing and pass my condolences to the family and friends.