Marcus Johnson at The Additon

Marcus Johnson is a renowned jazz pianist, who incorporates the rhythms of soul, rock, hip hop, and R&B.

With the commercial and Billboard chart success of his NAACP Image Award nominated CD POETICALLY JUSTIFIED (#4) in his rearview and having been included among the ranks of contemporary jazz greats such as Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, and Vanessa Williams for that nomination, Marcus Johnson released his 12th CD titled, THIS IS HOW I ROCK (Three Keys Music/2010). This album boldly signifies an evolution: Johnson’s deliberate crossing into the pop/rock genre with a jazz spin, inspired by some of pop music’s most celebrated songs, songs that remained a significant influence in the life of the award-winning keyboardist, composer and producer and motivated his desire to pay tribute to some of the greatest pop hits....

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Marcus Johnson is a renowned jazz pianist, who incorporates the rhythms of soul, rock, hip hop, and R&B.

With the commercial and Billboard chart success of his NAACP Image Award nominated CD POETICALLY JUSTIFIED (#4) in his rearview and having been included among the ranks of contemporary jazz greats such as Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, and Vanessa Williams for that nomination, Marcus Johnson released his 12th CD titled, THIS IS HOW I ROCK (Three Keys Music/2010). This album boldly signifies an evolution: Johnson’s deliberate crossing into the pop/rock genre with a jazz spin, inspired by some of pop music’s most celebrated songs, songs that remained a significant influence in the life of the award-winning keyboardist, composer and producer and motivated his desire to pay tribute to some of the greatest pop hits.

THIS IS HOW I ROCK exemplifies Johnson’s versatility and brilliant interpretive skills. Listeners from the novice to the jazz connoisseur will be utterly engaged by Johnson’s signature jazz funk sound; and neither will be disappointed. The CD is set into motion with the first lick of the guitar on Fly Like An Eagle, in which Johnson on Fender Rhodes ascends his unique sound to new heights in this rousing rendition of a soft rock favorite. Johnson’s deliberate and soulful progression continues with Sly and The Family Stone’s classic Thank You (For Letting Me Be Myself), the second single from “This Is How I Rock.” Teaming up once more with Najee for a new twist, Johnson provides the shimmering ethereal sound from his Fender Rhodes, while Najee generously supplies his funky saxophone swagger. Johnson’s collaborative enthusiasm is reflected on "Virtual Insanity" and the Hall Oates’ hit "I Can’t Go For That.” Johnson adds a sophisticated piano sheen on both songs, drawing upon the expertise of Robert McDonald, producer of “Cherish the Journey,” from Johnson’s last CD, POETICALLY JUSTIFIED. "Virtual Insanity" showcases a majestic string arrangement featuring violinist Bobby Yang. Woven between these two emerging hits is "Rise," Johnson's approach to Herb Alpert's chart topping single, featuring trumpeter Greg Adams from Tower of Power. This track seductively blends Johnson’s intricate and hypnotic piano accompaniment with Adams’ smoky trumpet. A delicate unpretentious shift gives listeners Johnson’s interpretation of "Mas Que Nada." Johnson maintains the uniquely Brazilian flavor of Sergio Mendez while adding the exotic background vocals of Maysa. The persistent synergy of Johnson’s body of work flows around and through "Come Together"; Johnson owns the jazz funk on the remake of this Beatles’ classic. His version of Nirvana’s "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is the last offering on this CD. Johnson is unrushed as a tranquil piano swells to a mesmerizing crescendo of mind-blowing ivory and breathtaking rock guitar. It is the dynamic influence on this entire project.

Prior to the release of his current offering, Marcus Johnson released POETICALLY JUSTIFIED making it his 11th solo jazz record and is considered to be his most unique and multifaceted album to date. In 2008, Johnson introduced the jazz world to the groundbreaking Billboard Top 15 Contemporary Jazz FLO series – FLO: Chill (#7), FLO: Romance (#7) and FLO: Standards (#2).

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