Life & Work with Kevin Johnson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Johnson.

Hi Kevin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started as a baby being a drummer, beating away on my parents’ furniture. I grew up in church, taught by Phylshawn Johnson at the age of 10. I started playing in church shortly after that and have played every Sunday all of my life unless I’ve been on the road.

I attended Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts and I honed on my skills but stuck mostly to playing by ear. During my graduation ceremony, one year after my real graduation date I sang the national anthem. It took a while for me to embrace my voice but I did.

I have always lived in multiple music worlds. While drum and voice are my main instruments I also play guitar and I produce music for many hip hop artists. I have an EP on all media outlets and a new project, “Brown Liquor Music” released independently.

As a drummer and singer, I am hired for international and national gigs; I’ve toured for the last six years with the R&B legend Ginuwine and I have played for greats like Roy Ayers, Raheem DeVaughn and Ro James and am featured on the song, “I’m Sorry” by TechNineI also work within the corporate band industry as well.

I’m most looking forward to singing more Jazz in the future. I’ve played at the Essence Festival and on the T-Mobile stage. These are great accomplishments but there is so much more to do.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My greatest obstacle has been my own thinking in a limited way. I can honestly say that now that I am free from it. There are just things I will no longer endure for the sake of being a full time musician/singer. Still, my faith in God has always kept me and I am grateful for my faith and the protection I’ve received.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a drummer of all genres and I literally mean all. If I can hear it and learn it I can play it.

I have a soulful voice and an old soul. Even though I am only 34, I grew up listening to old music.

I am most proud of the fact that I have made my living as a full time musician. This life hasn’t always been easy but I am doing what many are afraid to do.

I think what sets me apart is that I can be a lead, direct a band or choir, or play in the pocket with accents. I don’t have to be a star, I am a lover of music and understand every role is important.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I hope that African American music in KC really takes national hold. So many regions have achieved national success for multiple artists simultaneously but KC hasn’t quite gotten it the way we need to yet. I am hoping to help with that along with my colleagues.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: http://www.kevinchurchjohnson.com/
• Instagram: ChurchMusick.cb
• Facebook: Church Boii

Image Credits
Diallo Javonne
French Natasha
Ria El-Scari
Daniel Hogans