Episode 24 Chuck Johnson: A Guitarist's Journey To Success And To Int'l Recording Artist, Najee
Chuck Johnson knew since he was a child that he wanted to be a musician. After persistently nagging his father (who played music in a band during rowdy parties) to teach him how to play, he learned his first 3 chords at 6 years old.
Chuck Johnson probably never imagined his early childhood fascination would turn into a successful career as a prominent member of 3 bands and internationally touring with a jazz legend.
From the ins and outs of forming bands over his career to the way he balanced a job with his musical commitments, Chuck spends this episode sharing stories and providing insight into his wide-ranging career– including playing some live music from his most recent album.
Originally from Ferrum, a small rural town in southwest Virgina, Charles “Chuck” Johnson is a guitarist and vocalist for the band TK-421 and Najee. He got his first big break in a variety band called Bananas At Large. In addition to his experience with Bananas At Large and TK-421, Chuck performs occasionally with jazz artists Alex Bugnon, Jeff Lorber, Will Downing, Maysa, and others.
Show Highlights:
Chuck’s early musical influences, from family jam sessions to big-time artists
What motivated Chuck’s father to give him a banjo at 12 years old
Who influenced Chuck to veer away from his musical roots of country and bluegrass
When and how Chuck decided to improve his vocal cord care
How Chuck was recruited to join Bananas At Large
What goes through Chuck’s mind during a performance
Chuck hypothesizes on why Bananas At Large became such a huge success
The events that led to Chuck leaving Bananas At Large and forming TK-421
What it was like to perform in music while he was balancing a full-time job
Andy and Chuck reminisce about the cross-over in their musical backgrounds
How Chuck bypassed auditioning and began playing with Najee
Chuck’s tips for learning on the job in brand new situations
What it was like for Chuck to play in front of Stevie Wonder
What did Al Jarreau say to Chuck after seeing Chuck perform
Chuck shares his love of music by singing and playing an original song
LINKS & RESOURCES
Chuck Johnson:
Chuck's Website
Bananas At Large
Bananas At Large performing Led Zeppelin’s “Trampled Under Foot”
Mentioned:
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The Music Makers on Instagram
The Music Makers podcast theme song was written and produced by Andy Kushner with help from the rhythm section and horn players of the band, SoundConnection: Elliot Jefferson, Lamonte Silver, Keith Hammond, Roy Lambert, Joe Herrera, and Craig Alston.
Sponsor: Kushner Entertainment
Check out Andy's Other Podcast: The Wedding Biz
