Brothers Johnson

Biography

The Brothers Johnson were an American funk and R&B band formed by brothers George Johnson (guitarist/vocalist, nicknamed 'Lightnin' Licks') and Louis Johnson (bassist/vocalist, nicknamed 'Thunder Thumbs'), who grew up in Los Angeles, California. As students at Jordan High School in the late 1960s, they formed the band Johnson Three Plus One with older brother Tommy and cousin Alex Weir, performing at school events and soon turning professional to back touring acts like Bobby Womack and the Supremes. They joined Billy Preston's band, contributing songs like 'Music Is My Life' and 'The Kids & Me' to his albums before leaving in 1973.[1][2][3]

Fun Facts

• Louis Johnson was renowned for his 'Thunder Thumbs' bass technique, and George for 'Lightnin' Licks' on guitar, nicknames reflected in their song 'Thunder Thumbs and Lightnin' Licks'.[1][3]
• They wrote over 250 songs during their time with Billy Preston.[4]
• In 1978, they won a Grammy for Best R&B Instrumental Performance for 'Quincy's Dinner' from the Blam!! album.[4]
• Louis Johnson passed away on May 22, 2015.[2]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Quincy Jones - Key mentor and producer who hired them for tours and albums (Mellow Madness, Look Out for #1, Right on Time, Blam!!, Light Up the Night) [1973-1980]
• Billy Preston - Band leader they toured and wrote for (Music Is My Life, The Kids & Me) [1971-1973]

Key Collaborators

• Tommy Johnson - Older brother and band member in early group (Johnson Three Plus One) [late 1960s]
• Alex Weir - Cousin and guitarist in early group (Johnson Three Plus One) [late 1960s]
• Bobby Womack - Touring act they backed (Live performances) [early 1970s]
• Supremes - Touring act they backed (Live performances) [early 1970s]
• Michael Jackson - Louis played bass on his album (Thriller) [1982]

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia