Hello Mr. Wilson,

I suppose this is a fairly standard question; however, it is one that I am always particularly interested in reading the responses to. At what age did you start? Who do you consider to be some of the best magicians (there may be too may to list )? Who were your mentors? and finally, How did you get into magic?

I look forward to reading your responses,
Jordan

I think I might have gotten into magic fairly late (at 17) when watching a friend in High School do a one-handed shuffle. I became immediately hooked, thinking it was James Bond cool. Unfortunately, if I tried to sound suave like him and say, "My name is Wilson, Greg Wilson." The ladies would respond, "Off, buzz off!" Or, "Way, no way!" Or, "Chance, fat chance!"

Regarding your question of mentorship, I think by definition that would mean a trusted trainer or personal advisor, to which I had none in the beginning. However, I was and still am a voracious reader, being thoroughly influenced and inspired in my formative years by Marlo, Vernon, Harris, Lorayne, Le Paul and Erdnase, to name a few.

After a few years in magic, I learned the exponential power of brainstorming by becoming the last officially-unofficial Long Beach Mystic back in the early 80's. You might recognize some of the luminaries that that magic club produced: Michael Weber, Mike Caveney, Kevin James, Armando Lucero, Dana Daniels, Mark Kalin... again, to name a few.

Hi Greg

So when did you decide to become semi pro /pro and how did you find it?!

Best wishes,


Danny

I started magic in 1978, but didn't go pro until 1992.

I was practically forced into it as I really needed the money and an easy, high-paying gig came my way. So, I guess you can say that I came kicking and screaming into the professional world of magic.

Nice :o)