Biography
Howard Williams Johnson, born November 28, 1956, in Miami, Florida, is an American soul and disco singer best known as the founder of the group Niteflyte. Johnson began his musical journey performing in local Miami bars and clubs, where his talent soon attracted the attention of Sandy Torano, a guitarist and producer with connections to the Commodores and Phyllis Hyman. This pivotal meeting led to the formation of Niteflyte in 1977 under Ariola Records, launching Johnson's recording career and establishing his presence in the post-disco and funk scenes.[1][2][3][4]
After two albums with Niteflyte, Johnson signed a solo contract with A&M Records. His debut solo album, 'Keepin' Love New' (1982), produced by Kashif, Paul Laurence Jones, and Morris Brown, featured the hit single 'So Fine,' which reached No. 1 on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart. Johnson continued to build his reputation with subsequent albums 'Doin' It My Way' (1983), produced by The System, and 'The Vision' (1985), with contributions from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. His smooth vocal style, blending soul, disco, urban, and boogie influences, resonated strongly in both the U.S. and UK markets.[1][2]
Johnson's career extended through collaborations with artists such as Donna Allen and Regis Branson, notably forming the duo Johnson & Branson in 1989. While the 1990s saw a slowdown in his recording activity, Johnson returned in the 2000s with new releases and reissues, maintaining a legacy as a respected figure in post-disco and funk. His work continues to be celebrated for its melodic richness and dancefloor appeal.[1][2]
Fun Facts
- Johnson's single 'So Fine' reached No. 1 on the U.S. Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart in 1982.
- He founded the group Niteflyte, which was signed to Ariola Records and released two albums before Johnson's solo career.
- After a quiet period in the 1990s, Johnson's music found renewed popularity in Japan, leading to the release of 'Packed and Waitin'' in 2002.
- His A&M albums were reissued in the Netherlands by PTG label, highlighting his enduring appeal in European markets.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Sandy Torano - Discovered Johnson in Miami and launched his recording career by recruiting him for Niteflyte (Niteflyte albums) [1977–early 1980s]
Key Collaborators
- Kashif - Produced Johnson's debut solo album (Keepin' Love New (1982)) [1982]
- Paul Laurence Jones - Co-producer on debut solo album (Keepin' Love New (1982)) [1982]
- Morris Brown - Co-producer on debut solo album (Keepin' Love New (1982)) [1982]
- The System - Produced Johnson's second solo album (Doin' It My Way (1983)) [1983]
- Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis - Produced tracks for Johnson's third solo album (The Vision (1985)) [1985]
- Donna Allen - Duet partner on 'Perfect Timing' (Perfect Timing (1986)) [1986]
- Regis Branson - Formed duo Johnson & Branson (Johnson and Branson (1989), Packed and Waitin' (2002)) [1989, 2002]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Keepin' Love New | 1982-01-01 | Album |
| Doin' It My Way (Expanded Edition) | 1983-01-01 | Album |
| The Vision (Expanded Edition) | 1985-01-01 | Album |
| Chameleons of the White Shadow | 2013-02-15 | Album |
| G.R.O.W | 2024-02-24 | Album |
| For Me and My Gal | 1996 | Album |
| Keepin' Love New (Remastered) | 1982-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- So Fine (Keepin' Love New)
- Keepin' Love New (Keepin' Love New)
- Say You Wanna (Keepin' Love New)
- So Fine
- Take Me Through The Night (Keepin' Love New)
- I Get Around - Remix (Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z... (Expanded Edition))
- So Glad You're My Lady (Keepin' Love New)
- You Do You (2 Steps Away)
- Jump Into Fire - Remastered (Doin' It My Way (Expanded Edition))
- Jam Song (Keepin' Love New)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
HOWARD JOHNSON has been played 2 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 8, 2026 | 14:50 | The Cisco Kidfrom Cisco Kid | Bluesw/ DJ Giant | |
| Oct 30, 2025 | 14:40 | SO FINEfrom KEEPIN' LOVE NEW | Bluesw/ DJ Giant |