William Wims was born and raised in Bronzeville. He was introduced to tap dance at age 14 by joining M.A.D.D. Rhythms After School Matters program where he was taught with other local teens, receiving instruction from Bril Barrett, Star Dixon, Donnetta Jackson and many others. With After School Matters, Wims performed around the city at venues and events such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Lollapalooza and others. Shortly after the program ended, at age 16, he began apprenticing with the M.A.D.D. Rhythms professional company.
