He studied at Modesto High School where he was a member of the American football team and ran hurdles.
After graduating from high school in 1956, he attended a year of junior college before moving to Los Angeles.
He later moved to San Francisco seeking better opportunities for an R&B career, and started his own big band and quartet.
He later spoke of his surprise upon seeing the music scene there: "I'd never seen so many talented, hard-working, earnest people in my life.
[1] With Billy Higgins With Joe Lee Wilson With Sam Rivers With Ronnie Boykins