40 Facts About Will Johnson

Early Life and Background

Will Johnson's journey into the world of music and art began in a small town and evolved through various experiences and influences.

1. Birth and Early Life: Will Johnson was born on March 23, 1971, in Kennett, Missouri.
2. Family Background: At the age of 11, his mother remarried, and the family moved to Killeen, Texas.
3. Education: Johnson attended the University of North Texas, where he double-majored in English and elementary education.
4. Musical Beginnings: He began playing drums, piano, and sang in his church choir at an early age.

Early Musical Ventures

Johnson's early musical endeavors laid the foundation for his future career. He was involved in various bands and projects during his formative years.

5. Early Bands: Johnson was a founding member and drummer for the jangle-rock band The Benjamins in Killeen, Texas.
6. University Bands: While at the University of North Texas, he played in various bands such as Polyester, Salt Lick, The Dooms UK, and Baboon.
7. Denton Music Scene: Johnson was deeply involved in Denton's active music scene, which included venues like Rick’s Place and the Argo.
8. Dallas Connection: He moved to Dallas and played drums with Funland, one of the first Dallas rock bands to ink a major-label deal.

Rise to Fame

Johnson's career took off as he became the frontman of Centro-Matic and collaborated with numerous artists.

9. Career in Music: Johnson is best known as the frontman of the Denton pop band Centro-Matic and has also been part of several other notable bands, including South San Gabriel and Monsters of Folk.
10. Prolific Output: Known for his prolific output, Johnson has released numerous albums and EPs, often at a staggering pace.
11. Collaborations: He has collaborated with artists such as Jim James, Conor Oberst, and Jay Farrar on various projects.
12. Undertow Orchestra: Johnson performed with the Undertow Orchestra, a collective featuring David Bazan, Vic Chesnutt, and Mark Eitzel.
13. Monsters of Folk: He was a drummer for the indie supergroup Monsters of Folk, which also included Jim James, Conor Oberst, M. Ward, and Mike Mogis.
14. New Multitudes: From 2009 to 2012, Johnson collaborated with Jay Farrar, Jim James, and Anders Parker on the Woody Guthrie archive project New Multitudes.
15. Overseas: In 2009, he formed the band Overseas with David Bazan and Matt and Bubba Kadane.

Solo Work and Side Projects

In addition to his band work, Johnson has pursued solo projects and other creative endeavors.

16. Solo Work: Johnson has also released solo records and has been involved in various side projects throughout his career.
17. Authorship: In addition to his musical endeavors, Johnson is an author. His novel "If or When I Call" was published by Goliad Media in 2021.
18. Artistic Contributions: Johnson is also a painter and has contributed to various art projects, including the Undertow Orchestra’s visual elements.

Influence and Community Building

Johnson's impact extends beyond his music. He has played a significant role in fostering community among musicians.

19. Influence on Indie Rock: Johnson’s ability to connect with other musicians and bring them together has earned him the nickname “the Kevin Bacon of indie rock”.
20. Community Building: His role in bridging the musical gaps between Dallas and Denton bands has been instrumental in shaping the Texas music scene.
21. Family Life: Despite his busy schedule, Johnson prioritizes family life. He often writes and records songs while his toddler naps at home.
22. Physical and Emotional Release: Songwriting provides Johnson with a physical and emotional release, which he admits to being addicted to.
23. Austin Residence: Currently residing in Austin, Texas, Johnson continues to be a prominent figure in the local music scene.
24. Global Cult Following: Despite not being a traditional rock star, Johnson has a global cult following due to his unique music and prolific output.
25. Music Press Recognition: The music press often describes Johnson as “prolific,” highlighting his relentless drive to create music.

Personal and Professional Growth

Johnson's journey is marked by continuous growth and evolution, both personally and professionally.

26. Early Success: Before his nationwide recognition, Johnson was known as the Kevin Bacon of Denton, connecting local musicians and fostering a sense of community.
27. High School Education: Although he attended the University of North Texas, Johnson did not graduate from high school, instead focusing on his music career.
28. Early Influences: Growing up, Johnson was influenced by his church choir and local music scenes, which laid the foundation for his future musical endeavors.
29. Musical Style: Johnson’s music often blends elements of indie rock, folk, and experimental sounds, reflecting his eclectic approach to songwriting.
30. Touring Experience: He has toured extensively both in the US and Europe, performing with various bands and as a solo artist.

Notable Performances and Projects

Johnson's career includes several notable performances and projects that have left a lasting impact.

31. Austin City Limits Performance: Johnson performed on PBS’s Austin City Limits show in 2010 as part of the Monsters of Folk tour.
32. Neil Young’s Bridge School Benefit: He participated in Neil Young’s Bridge School Benefit in 2009, reuniting with Sheryl Crow, a family friend from his hometown.
33. Woody Guthrie Tribute: Johnson was part of the Woody Guthrie archive project New Multitudes, setting music to Guthrie’s unrecorded lyrics.
34. David Bazan Collaboration: He collaborated with David Bazan on the band Overseas and other projects, showcasing their musical chemistry.
35. Vic Chesnutt Connection: Johnson first met Vic Chesnutt in 1999 in Dallas, leading to their collaboration in the Undertow Orchestra.
36. Bob Andrews’ Undertow Orchestra Idea: The Undertow Orchestra was formed by Bob Andrews, who brought together musicians from the Undertow Music Collective, including Johnson, Chesnutt, and Eitzel.

Artistic Evolution and Legacy

Johnson's artistic journey is marked by continuous evolution and a lasting legacy in the indie rock scene.

37. Style Evolution: Johnson’s style has evolved significantly over the years, from his early days in The Benjamins to his current work with various bands and as a solo artist.
38. Artistic Versatility: Beyond music, Johnson has explored other creative outlets like painting and writing, demonstrating his artistic versatility.
39. Recognition and Awards: Although not widely recognized for formal awards, Johnson’s contributions to indie rock and his prolific output have earned him significant respect within the music community.
40. Legacy and Impact: Will Johnson’s legacy extends beyond his individual projects; he has played a crucial role in shaping the indie rock landscape and fostering community among musicians.

Will Johnson's Lasting Impact

Will Johnson's career is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From his early days in Denton’s music scene to his role in bands like Centro-Matic and Monsters of Folk, he's left a significant mark on indie rock. His collaborations with artists like Jim James and Conor Oberst highlight his ability to connect and create. Beyond music, Johnson's talents extend to writing and painting, showcasing his multifaceted artistry. Living in Austin, he continues to influence the local music scene while maintaining a global cult following. His novel "If or When I Call" adds another layer to his creative legacy. Johnson's relentless drive and passion for his craft make him a pivotal figure in contemporary music and art. His contributions have shaped the indie rock landscape, fostering a sense of community among musicians and leaving an indelible legacy.