Having Performed With Some Of The World’s Most Well-Known Jazz Artists, George A. Johnson Is No Stranger To The World Of The Genre

SUMMARY: George A. Johnson is a third-generation jazz drummer who began playing at age five. Having established himself at age 12 in the Atlantic City music scene of the 60’s, he cemented himself as a talented jazz drummer studying under greats Elvin Jones (who helped him select his first drum kit) and Art Blakey. It was this conditioning at a young age that helped to formulate his worth ethic and dedication. New album, “A Valentine’s Wish” expands upon his discipline, with new artists and sounds.

The success of George A. Johnson can be attributed to studying his art and having the real-world experience necessary to excel at it. Earning a Doctorate of Arts, his craft has led him all over the world, touring with some of the biggest names in jazz including McCoy Tyner, Wynton Marsalis, Grover Washington Jr., and many more. He has appeared at a host of jazz festivals including the Mont Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Mellon Jazz Festival, and the Atlantic City Jazz Festival among many others. Continuously perfecting his craft and passing on his knowledge, he is a representative of Paste Cymbals and holds drumming workshops at various locations including the Heritage Jazz Festival and Berkley College.

His new album, “A Valentine’s Wish” features some of his most unique work to date, bringing in violinist and multi-instrumentalist Gary Oleyer, who has toured with rock great Kenny Loggins and Swiss organist Daniel Kostelnik. The result is a rich and vibrant album that features an extremely textured, captivating soundscape that incorporates traditional jazz elements alongside an experimental sound. Both the experience of the featured musicians and their willingness to take chances with the album’s production leads to an experimental jazz sound that refuses to compromise or grow stale. Each track to the next has layers that the listener can hear numerous times and still find nuance with each subsequent listen.

Designed with purpose and to induce happiness, “A Valentine’s Wish” is available on iTunes along with Johnson’s previous 16 albums, and will be supported by a fall tour. For more information on George A. Johnson, visit his web site at (http://www.georgeajohnsonjr1.com) and his Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003181686463). Check out his YouTube channel for his latest videos, including footage taken of live performances.