Johnnie Johnson (musician)

Johnnie Clyde Johnson (July 8, 1924 – April 13, 2005) was an American pianist who played jazz, blues, and rock and roll. His work with Chuck Berry led to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for breaking racial barriers in the military as a Montford Point Marine, where he endured racism and inspired social change while integrating the previously all-white Marine Corps during World War II.

Johnnie Johnson
Johnson at the 1996 Riverwalk Blues Festival
Background information
Birth nameJohnnie Clyde Johnson
Born(1924-07-08)July 8, 1924
Fairmont, West Virginia, U.S.
DiedApril 13, 2005(2005-04-13) (aged 80)
St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.
Genres
  • Blues
  • rock and roll
  • jazz
Occupation(s)
  • Musician
  • songwriter
Instrument(s)Piano
Years active1952–2005
LabelsChess
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