brent johnson

Biography

Brent Johnson is a South Texas-born blues and blues rock guitarist who began playing guitar at the age of four, displaying prodigious talent from an early age. After his family relocated to New Orleans during his teenage years, Johnson immersed himself in the city’s vibrant musical culture, drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres including blues, jazz, rock, punk, country, and world music. He formed several high school bands with a blues focus and gained local recognition performing with the group Under The Gun, which developed a strong following on the Louisiana live circuit.

Johnson’s career took a significant turn when he was discovered by the legendary 'Braille Blues Daddy' Bryan Lee, who recognized Johnson’s virtuosity and dedication to the blues. At 22, Johnson joined Bryan Lee and the Blues Power Band, touring and recording with them nationally and internationally for a decade. In 2014, Johnson released his debut album 'Set the World on Fire' with his band The Call Up, featuring Bill Blok (bass), John Perkins (drums), and Wayne Lohr (keyboards), as well as guest appearances by Alvin Youngblood Hart and Sonny Landreth. Johnson’s musical style is deeply rooted in the blues but incorporates elements of rock, funk, folk, and New Orleans R&B, emphasizing emotional authenticity and personal experience over strict adherence to tradition.

Known for his passionate and urgent playing, Johnson has established himself as a distinctive voice in contemporary blues, blending classic influences with a modern sensibility. His approach to music prioritizes feeling and directness, and he is celebrated for his dynamic live performances and soulful guitar work.

Fun Facts

• Brent Johnson began playing guitar at the age of four, showing prodigious talent from early childhood.
• He cites a diverse range of influences, including The Clash, Albert King, Charlie Parker, Jimi Hendrix, Albert Collins, Black Flag, and Thelonious Monk.
• Johnson emphasizes emotional authenticity over strict blues purism, blending genres such as funk, folk, and New Orleans R&B into his sound.
• His debut album, 'Set the World on Fire,' features extended live-style tracks, including a thirteen-minute rendition of 'As The Years Go Passing By.'

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Bryan Lee - Bryan Lee, the 'Braille Blues Daddy,' discovered Johnson in New Orleans, recognized his talent, and brought him into his band as a guitarist. (Bryan Lee and the Blues Power Band recordings and tours) [circa 2000s–2010s]

Key Collaborators

• Bill Blok - Bassist and backing vocalist in Brent Johnson's band The Call Up. (Set the World on Fire (album), live performances) [2010s–present]
• John Perkins - Drummer in The Call Up, Johnson's main touring and recording band. (Set the World on Fire (album), live performances) [2010s–present]
• Wayne Lohr - Keyboardist featured on Johnson's debut album and live shows. (Set the World on Fire (album)) [2010s–present]
• Alvin Youngblood Hart - Guest guitarist on three tracks of Johnson's debut album. (Set the World on Fire (album)) [2014]
• Sonny Landreth - Guest slide guitarist on one track of Johnson's debut album. (Set the World on Fire (album)) [2014]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. As The Years Go Passing By (Set The World On Fire)
2. Don't Make a Sound (Set The World On Fire)
3. So Glad You're Mine (Set The World On Fire)
4. As The Years Go Passing By (Late Night Blues - Soulful Blues Classics)
5. Steampunk Suite: IV. Barnum & Tesla's Tandem Bicycle (Excerpts) (WE Live: The Carson Center)
6. Meet Me In The Morning (Set The World On Fire)
7. The Ticket (Set The World On Fire)
8. Don't Take it With You (Set The World On Fire)
9. Long Way Back to New Orleans (Set The World On Fire)
10. Glass Ceiling (Set The World On Fire)

External Links

• Spotify