The Passing of a Rock & Roll Founding Member...

JOHNNIE JOHNSON
JULY 8, 1924 - APRIL 13, 2005


Johhnie Johnson with Marie Dixon and STYX at 2120 Press conference 0n 4-28-04...Photo: Amy Charfoos

Hello Friends,

We're sad to report that the legendary Johnnie Johnson passed away this morning. We were honored to call him our friend and to have him join us on stage and in the studio.

In the photo above, Johnnie is describing how Willie Dixon patiently taught them how to make a record the day they cut "Maybellene" at Chess Studios. You can hear Willie's thumping upright bass on that track. The love and admiration for Johnnie is easy to read on all of our faces. We're going to miss that man.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Frances and the rest of his family.

STYX
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Here is the official press release:

Rock 'n' Roll piano legend, Johnnie Johnson, died of natural causes at his home outside of St. Louis, MO this morning. He was 80 years old.

Johnson began his career in 1952, when he hired the then-unknown guitarist, Chuck Berry, to join his St. Louis-based band. Berry eventually became the frontman of the group and the two collaborated on some of Rock 'n' Roll's most seminal recordings, including "Maybellene," "Roll Over Beethoven," and "Sweet Little Sixteen."

Johnson stepped into the spotlight later in life, releasing his first solo album in 1989. His star continued to grow, especially among his fellow musicians, who lined up to work with the icon. In the last decade, Johnson performed and recorded with an amazingly diverse array of artists, including Eric Clapton, Aerosmith, Keith Richards, The Kentucky Headhunters, Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead, Susan Tedeschi, NRBQ, Buddy Guy and Styx.

In honor of his contributions to the genre, Johnson was inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 by his friend and supporter, Keith Richards. He continued to perform and headline at concerts and clubs around the world until earlier this year. His last performance was with fellow Rock 'n' Roll originator, Bo Diddley on February 9, 2005. "It was so much fun to play with Johnnie," Diddley said upon hearing the news. "The world has lost a great man and a great musician. He will be missed but his music will live on."

Johnson is survived by his wife, Frances, 10 children and many grandkids. A memorial service will be held at a time and place to be announced.


Click on a pic to see other pics and captions posted on this day.

Previously published on Styxworld.com on or about the date mentioned.