Walt
"Wali" Neil is an "artist of the spirit"
whose formal training ended with a high school diploma. majoring
in commercial art. Mentors like Tom Pannell, Ed Colston and
Bill Agnew introduced him to the most challenging profession
on Earth... Being African - American artist in America!
Despite
discouraging advice from teachers, guidance counselors and
family members, Neil continued to travel from state to state
seeking out kindred spirits which led to teaching positions
in St. Thomas, Virgin Island and Atlanta, Georgia.
Two
trips to Africa only showed Walt what an unlimited future
that was in store for mankind and in the cultural wealth Africa
had to offer. Neil's guide (in Africa), named Mohammed chose
the name "Wali" after theway Walt treated him and
his family. The name "Wali" means friend. So now
Walt Neil adds the name to his own and uses it when he sings
and performs on stage.