"THE ART OF JAZZ VOCALESE"

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Entertainer, lyricist, recording artist, Vocalese LECTURES, WorkShops, Artist in Residence, promoter, producer, web designer, Direct Descendant of the Late Great "EDDIE JEFFERSON"





1977 - Baltimore Leftbank Jazz Society - "Heir Apparent" Passing the tourch....He's NExt In LIne...Next In Line!






gvj 2nd on the right...










Freedom Jazz Dance "WOW"

GVJ & JM - Jazz Mobile @ Grants Tomb NYC, Live NPR Coast to Coast Radio Broadcast w/Harold Mabern-piano, Todd Coolman-bass, Eddie Gladden-drums

"The One and Only "GEORGE V JOHNSON JR"~~~~James Moody

DURING THE 10 YEAR SPAN JAMES MOODY PRESENTED GEORGE V JOHNSON JR ON OVER A DOZEN LIVE NPR COAST TO COAST BROADCAST AS WELL AS TELEVISION AND HE TOP CLUBS IN NYC AND THE EASTCOAST. WHERE EVER THEY PLAYED JAZZ FANS WAITED IN LONG LINES, SOMETIMES AROUND THE CORNER TO HEAR THE GREAT JAMES MOODY.

He was also a favorite of LOU DONALDSON. Johnson says, playing with Donaldson Lou was like singing with Charlie Parker. He was able to sing all his "BIRD" lyrics while Donaldson would play along while he sang the solo’s note for note. Being on stage with Lou Donaldson was one of the greatest feelings you could imagine. They first met in 1975 at the Pigfoot Jazz Club located in Washington DC when Donaldson dropped by to see longtime freind and pianist John Malachi. It was there where they both met and played together on "NOW"S THE TIME". Whenever George shows up at his concerts unannounced, Lou doesn’t hesitate to bring him up to sing.

Ladies and gentlemen, we’re gonna bring up a young man from Washington DC, George V Johnson Jr. A great, soulful, bebop singer. My opinion one of the best in America. He’s even written lyrics to my solo on the MAMBO INN! This is a rare treat. Me and Him! We’re gonna feature him on a Charles Christopher Parker tune "My Little Suede Shoes" with original lyrics. In fact, he’s written lyrics to over 30 of Bird’s classic compositions. If you have any questions give me a call~~~~~ LOU DONALDSON

Excerpts from live concert 2007 @ Jazz Mobile, Harlem NYC

RICHIE COLE

DAVID ’FATHEAD’ NEWMAN "HARD TIMES" Lyrics by George V Johnson Jr.

WHILE PERORMING WITH JAMES MOODY HE SHARED THE STAGE WITH SOME OF THE HARDEST HITTING MJSICIANS IN THE BUSINESS

HAROLD MABERN

TODD COOLMAN,

EDDIE GLADDEN - THE MAN FROM GLAD,

RUFUS REID,

KENNY BARON

RONNIE MATHEWS

MULGREW MILLER

RENEE ROSNES

IDRIS MUHAMMAD

MICHAEL CARVIN

BEN RILEY

KENNY WASHINGTON

TERRY LYNNE CARRINGTON

VICTOR JONES

MARSHALL HAWKINS

BUSTER WILLIAMS

BILLY HART

JAMIL NASSER

RAY DRUMMOND

KURT LIGHTSEY

JAMES WILLIAMS

HILTON RUIZ

HAL GALPER

MICHEL PETRUCIANNI

WALTER BISHOP, pianist for Charlie Parker, a great inspiration gave George his book of Poetry

LARRY RIDLEY & THE JAZZ LEGACY ENSEMBLE

BARRY HARRIS featured James Moody & GVJ at TOWNHALL w/Strings and a 100 voice choir. "TO BIRD WITH LOVE" directed by the late Coldridge Taylor Perkins in 1985. George also studied and performed with the Barry Harris Jazz Choir for several years.

ARNIE LAWRENCE, Musician & Educator, Co-Founder of the New School in NYC. He also performed with Johnny Carson’s "TONIGHT SHOW BAND" for 15 years. Lawrence relocated back to his homeland and was one of the most respected people in Israel. Simular to the New School, he started satilite jazz programs across the region. During a phone conversation he requested that George V Johnson Jr come to Israel, 5 months after 9/11. With the advice of drummer Max Roach, Johnson proceeded with the trip. While there they filmed the Documentary "SAVE THE CHILDREN". Touring Jerusalem, Teliviv, Haifa, Mt Olive & Mt. Meriom. Five nights during the week they performed at Arnie JazzNess Cafe. A club named after Arnie Lawrence owned and operated by the Palestinians. "ARNIE’S BAND OF ANGELS" consisted of Jews, Palestinian/Muslims and Americans.

While hanging out with the late Great LEON THOMAS at the Village Vanguard he introduced George to PHAROAH SANDERS. Thomas informed him of his connection with the Late EDDIE JEFFERSON. Pharoah asked him to sit in. It was there he sang for the first time in public JOHN COLTRANE’s classic "MOMENTS NOTICE" from the Blue Note Recording "BLUE TRANE". The audience was estatic and Johnson was give a standing ovation requesting that he do more. Johnson says he’d been practicing the lyrics for 6 years prior and hoping that someday he would be able to record and at a "Moments Notice" his dream came true through Pharoah Sanders, one of his idols for many years. The Creator has a MASTER PLAN.

After his breath taking performance at the Vanguard, Johnson says he left the club in a hurry without saying a word, because he was overcomed with joy and tears began flowing. Five days later he received a call from Pharoah Sanders who somehow managed to get his telephone number. During the conversation he asked if he would like to hang out with him he following weekend in NYC. When he got to the address it was Power Station Studio. He watched in awe as the group recorded several tracks. The musicians there were people he had only heard on record and had no idea what was going to happen next.

After about 2 hrs he was approached by Pharoah and asked if he would like to sing his lyrics to Moments Notice. Johnson was caught by complete surprise and in one take history was made. It was there that he made his debute recording with....

PHAROAH SANDERS on the LP/CD REJOICE!!! Moments Notice ended up being the most popular composition on the recording and was played on practicially every radio station around the world giving Johnson worldwide recognition. To this day it still remains a favorite among jazz listeners.

COLTRANE’S classic "Moments Notice" is a complete gas! Sanders like Coltrane, pulls and holds attention with his entrances. Bobby Hutcherson’s and Hicks solo’s are heated and models of vivid imagination. The three put forth some of the very best solo’s in the entire album. The there’s the arresting new talent introduced here on compact disc in debute -

GEORGE V JOHNSON JR., whose marvelous lyrics and viocal work are truly auspicous! He sngs with James Moody on occassion and is happily remindflul of the insistent giftness of the late EDDIE JEFFERSON. Johnson’s three stanzars close with "Relax dig the sounds of Coltrane’s Music. Coltrane fills your heart with love and harmony. Trane played with magic. Listen to the melodies and you will see momently. When you here the message of his song!". There’s no doubt in my mind that henceforth George V Johnson sholuld and will be sought for his own gift to the music. He sang the song for Sanders at the Village Vanguard, and Sanders "felt that George ought to be heard". Thank you, Pharoah Sanders for your spirit of sharing! Wheeeeee....what a dynamite track this is~~~~HERBIE WONG!

THE LATE GREAT JOHN HICKS (Rejoice)

STEVE TURRE (Rejoice)

DANNY MOORE (Rejoice)

BOBBY HUTCHERSON (Rejoice)

George V Johnson Jr & The Late Great DR. ART DAVIS (Rejoice), who was considered by many as the "World’s Greatest Bass Player". Recorded "A LOVE SUPREME" with John Coltrane.

In 2003 GVJ presented "THE ART OF JAZZ VOCALESE" Workshop at Art Davis’ music class @ Orange, County College. Senior class theises Topix "MOMENTS NOTICE". www.artdavis.com

(December 5, 1934 - July 29, 2007) was a double-bassist, best known for his work with jazz musicians including Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, and Max Roach. Davis was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania where he began studying the piano at the age of 5, switched to tuba, and finally to bass while attending high school. He studied at Juilliard but graduated from Hunter College. Art Davis was a professor at Orange Coast College. Davis is also known for launching a legal case, which led to the current system of blind auditions for orchestras.

In 1961, Davis was named the second African-American member of the NBC Staff Orchestra--a first-call session player, he also appeared on records headlined by McCoy Tyner, Eric Dolphy, Roland Kirk, Elvin Jones and Freddie Hubbard, and in August 1962 even entered the studio with up-and-coming folksinger Bob Dylan. Other notable figures from popular music such as Judy Garland, Minne Pearl, Barbara Streisand, Hank Williams. Davis’ career has also seen performances with major orchestras such as the National Symphony, NBC Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Radio City Music Hall Symphony, Westchester Symphony, Orange County Symphony and others. He also worked regularly on the Merv Griffin, Jack Paar, and Johnny Carson shows (and others), as well as performing in the New York studios playing jingles, films, and freelancing with performers.

However, Davis’ outspoken criticism of the music industry’s deep-rooted racism eventually cut too deep after filing a law suit against Leonard Bernstein, conductor of the New York Philharmonic.

( http://www.guardian.co.uk/obituaries/story/0,,2157143,00.html )

Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) was perhaps the most influential figure in classical music in the last half of the twentieth century. Composer, conductor, author, lecturer and often controversial media personality, the American-born Bernstein had a dramatic impact on the popular audience’s acceptance and appreciation of classical music. His own work as a composer, particularly his scores for such Broadway musicals as West Side Story and On the Town, helped forge a new relationship between classical and popular music.

The case drew National attention and for over a decade Art Davis was blacklisted and unable to find work throughout that industry, finally resurfacing in 1980 with the album Reemergence--in the interim, he earned his masters degree in experimental psychology, supporting himself by teaching and playing in Broadway orchestras.

While promoting a upcoming Tribute to John Lewis concert with GVJ in May 2001 which took place at the South Broadway Cultural Center (see pic below)

John Lewis (3 May 1920 – 29 March 2001) was an American jazz pianist and composer best known as the musical director of the Modern Jazz Quartet grew up in Albuquerque’s South Broadway neighborhood.

After sharing his stories about John Coltrane, Davis was asked about the incident during a live NPR radio interview in Albuquerquie, NM by radio host ROY DURHEE (KUNM). As he began responding to the question, the interview was abruptly cut short because the power in the entire station went out for no other apparent reason. The radio station was shut down/off air for the remainder of the evening. Durphee was unfortunately fired. Friends and jazz fans were in complete shock. FREEDOM OF SPEECH??? He was rehired months later because of his many years of contributions to jazz and to the station.

Davis earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from New York University in 1982. He moved to southern California in 1986 where he balanced his teaching and praticing of psychology with jazz performances. Davis died on July 29, 2007 from a heart attack. He was survived by two sons and a daughter. He paid the price and and scraficed and because of Dr. Art Davis Symphony Orchestras and Television studios have beeen totaly intergrated with people of all nationalities. "A TRUE CULTRUAL WARRIOR" Art Davis was to JAZZ like Martin L. King was to Civil Rights. Now we know why he’s called the "WORLD’S GREATEST BASSIST"

BILLY HIGINS (Rejoice) October 11, 1936–May 3, 2001 - Played mainly free jazz and hard bop. Higgins began his career playing rhythm-and-blues and rock-and-roll with such musicians as Amos Milburn and Bo Diddley in the Los Angeles area. He played on Ornette Coleman’s first records, beginning in 1958. He then freelanced extensively with hard bop and other post-bop players, including Donald Byrd, Dexter Gordon, Joe Henderson, Milt Jackson, Jackie McLean, Pat Metheny, Hank Mobley, Thelonious Monk, Lee Morgan, David Murray, Art Pepper, Sonny Rollins, Mal Waldron, and Cedar Walton. He played on over 700 recordings, including recordings of rock and funk.

In the 1980s he opened a cultural centre, World Stage, in Los Angeles to encourage and promote younger jazz musicians. It provides workshops in performance and writing, as well as concerts and recordings.

This was George V Johnson’s only recording during a 20 year span. For 10 years he performed with some of the greatest names in jazz. During that time James Moody featured him at the top clubs and festivals on the scene. Fans in New York City were in awe because Moody was taking care of business and unselfishly featuring his close and dear friend EDDIE JEFFERSON’S protege’ George V Johnson Jr. They made regular apperances at the Village Vanguard, Sweet Basils, Seventh Ave South, South Seaport Jazz Festival, Carnegie Hall Kool Jazz Festival, 92nd Street Y, the Grand Re-opening of the famous Apollo Theatre, Television and National Public Radio broadcast.

Just Imagine.....at almost any time you could hear a trumpet coming from the kitchen of Sweet Basil or down the stairs of the Village Vanguard and there was

DIZZY GILLESPIE

WOODY SHAW

SONNY FORTUNE or even

Bill Cosby coming to the stage to do a comedy routine. On one occasion James Moody shouted out "Did you hear that Miles Davis Walked off the Stage" and George answered back "SO WHAT". Moody kicked of a tempo faster than a speeding bullet and the group started playing SO WHAT! The was smokin. Harold Mabern was working the keys, Todd Coolman was thumpin on the bass and Eddie Gladden was swinging his butt off. Johnson says, as finished singing Miles’ solo and he went into the bathroom. On his way he noticed

BIG GEORGE COLEMAN standing in the Vanguard kitchen and as Johnson walked into the bathroom there was

MILES DAVIS and

PHILLY JOE JONES standing at the urinal taking care of business. After seeing them he nervously entered the stall opposite both and over heard Miles saying to Philly in his rough voice, "Hey man this Cat is singing my Shit! Dam...who this Mother....? Philly answered back that’s George V Johnson, Eddie Jefferson’s protege’ and he can sing his ass off. He knew Johnson from meeting him in Philadelphia while performing with Jefferson during the 70’s on a few occasions. As Johnson went back to the stage to finish sing he song, he saw Miles standing at the phone booth against the wall giving him a thumbs up. This was the only time he came in contact with Miles Davis.

There was no doubt he was the hippest vocalist on the scene at that time. Singing original lyrics to Charlie Parkers, My Little Suede Shoes, Confirmation, and also performing songs he learned as a child listening to his mentor Eddie Jefferson like Gillespies, A Night In Tunisia, Coleman Hawkin’s classic "BODY & SOUL", Miles Davis "SO WHAT", Now’s the Time, Lester Leaps, Moody’s Mood for Love and more.

Johnson says the performances were historic and the notariety was overwhelming, but taking care of his family (3 sons) was not an option so he left the James Moody band after 10 historic years and disappeared for awhile working as a conductor on the railroad for 15 years. He continued to work on his craft, writing lyrics, plays and taking acting parts in community theatre when time presented. Twenty years later in 2000 he comes out with a self produce CD “Next In Line”. The opening cut features a 16 second sound bite of his mentor Eddie Jefferson the Founding Father of Jazz Vocalese uttering those exact words. One of my students George V Johnson Jr from Washington DC, He’s Next In Line! Next In Line! Sending a wake up call throughout the industry, that Johnson was the real deal. That same year he nominated and won “Best Jazz Male Vocals” for the 1st Annual Harlem Jazz Poll Awards. Out polling and bettering the likes of Al Jarreau, Bobby McFerrin, Kurt Elling, Kevin Mahogany, Allan Harris, George Benson and Jon Hendricks the headmaster of jazz vocalese.

George V Johnson Jr. is back on scene staking his claim and hasn’t lost a beat. From the first note that comes from his mouth the adrenaline flows through your body and you stop and think, wow! What a breath of fresh air! Where have you been? We’re glad you’re back!

For the past few years he has been introducing the jazz public to his Mobley lyrics with performances during the week long Hank Mobley Jazz Festival 2003 at Jazz Standard NYC, produced by Grammy Award winning arranger and trumpeter Don Sickler. Each evening he performed his lyrics for the first time with likes of

FRANK WESS (Don Sickler, Frank Wess, GVJ @ The JAZZ STANDARD in NYC)

Don Braden, Eric Alexander, Seamus Blake, Don Sickler, Ronnie Mathews, John Hicks & Victor Lewis. The concert was attended by none other than Rudy Van Gelder who recorded Hank Mobley at his famous Van Gelder studio and hadn’t made a club appearance since the mid 60s when John Coltrane appeared at the Village Vanguard. Quite a complement!

In preparation of a new and long awaited CD, Johnson has since then taken the Music Hank Mobley on the road touring and fine tuning his lyrics live on stage at Hartford Ct., Bushnell Park Monday Night 2004 Jazz Series & Live Radio Broadcast, 1st Annual Trenton Jazz Summit 2004, produced by himself, New Mexico, Philadelphia, Washington DC at Twins Lounge and most recently the John Birks Gillespie Auditorium in Bahai Center for Jazz in NYC. A well deserve presentation of one of the world’s greatest composers and saxophonist.

Hank Mobley recorded many of his classic compositions on the Blue Note label featuring some of the greatest names in jazz. Mobley composed over 100 songs that are becoming jazz classics and every musicians dream. Johnson’s soulful style and earthly lyrics to this great composers work establishes new dimensions in Jazz Vocalese. The voice accented with skillful musicians magically connects with the Mobley Spirit. Just imagine! Swinging, stories that take you on a musical voyage. Everyone should experience this. See what the buzz is all about. Join in the fun and bring the music of Hank Mobley to your city today. It’s Jazzically wonderful.

Hank’s Symphony, Soul Station, Dig Dis, No Room For Squares, East of The Village, This I Dig of You, Take Your Pick, Three Way Split, Split Feelings, Up A Step, Work Out, The Baptist Beat, My Groove Your Move, Soft Impressions, Hank’s Waltz, Chain Reaction, Roll Call, Syrup & Biscuits, Snappin Out, Comin’ Back, The Feelings Good, Uh Huh, Up Over and Out, Looking East, Cute N’ Pretty, Third Time Around, Bossa For Baby, Ballin, Madeline, No More Goodbyes, The Break Through, Hank’s Other Bag, Infra Rae, Straight NoFilter, Caddy for Daddy, The Morning After. . . and more.

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DON WILLIAMSON - ALL ABOUT JAZZ

Just when you wonder what will happen to the art of vocalese, other than its sustenance by a few artists like Kurt Elling, George V. Johnson, Jr. sneaks onto the scene with his own self-produced CD that begs for attention. And deservedly so. A student of legendary vocalese singer Eddie Jefferson, Johnson for whatever reason has waited twenty-something years to come out of his cocoon and spread his wings. A resident of south Jersey, and no doubt known as a singer only within the East Coast environs, Johnson has taken the initiative to record, produce and market his own CD, “Next In Line,” proving the value of the Internet to spread the message about deserving artists.

INNOVATOR - LYRICIST, HOOFER, FOUNDING FATHER OF VOCALESE

Eddie Jefferson himself kicks off “Next In Line” with an 18-second sound bite that introduces Johnson during a night of singing in 1977 as Johnson was to take over the thread of vocalese thought and melody Jefferson established. Now, Johnson figuratively is picking up that thread again with a CD mostly of jazz standards that Johnson put to words. Fittingly, Johnson pays tribute to the Eddie Jefferson style, right down to employing a swinging alto saxophonist, Arnold Sterling, who fills, and in some respects enlarges, the Richie Cole role . Read more: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=5811

EDDIE JEFFERSON (heard in the opening seconds of the disc) proclaiming his protege’ George V. Johnson as the successor to the throne. HE’S NEXT IN LINE, NEXT IN LINE! On this CD, Johnson sings with exuberance on a number of varied standards, including tunes by Charlie Parker, Jimmy Heath, and Miles Davis. The original “Opening Night” laments the lack of recognition that the major record companies give to serious aspiring jazz artists, and will strike a chord with every jazz musician that has ever solcited a record company in hopes of a record deal. Johnson has a smooth, graceful, and soulful style, and is supported very well in this regard by bandmates that can groove alongside, and underneath him. George V. Johnson shows us on Next In Line that he is a man dedicated to the art of song and singing, bringing forth both tradition and intuition. The promise first heard over twenty years ago is finally seeing the light of day, as Johnson is can be heard scatin’ and singin’ the night away. It’s as if he was singing the world a lullaby; giving it everything he’s got, and asking nothing in return. George V. Johnson Jr. The “V” is for Vocalese~~~~~Flibbert J Goosty, All About Jazz

John Malachi started the jazz workshop at the PIGFOOT in 1974 and continued for about 4 years. He was the first musician to mentor Johnson in Jazz followed by Eddie Jefferson whom he introduced. Malachi also accompanied many of the world’s greatest singers including

Sarah Vaungh from which she got her name "SASSY". Joe Williams, Al Hibbler, Lena Horne, Pearl Baily, Arthur Prysock, Carmen McRae, Etta Jones, Billy Holiday and many others.

John Malachi was also the pianist for the original Billy Eckstine Big Band that featured Charlie "Bird" Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Kenny Durham, Tadd Dameron, Lucky Thompson, Dexter Gordon, Sonny Stitt, Leo Parker, Fat’s Navarro, Gene Ammons and many more. He and Dr. Billy Taylor were two of the most important musicians to come from Washington DC after Duke Ellington!

Malachi deemed George V Johnson Jr "YOUR MAJESTY" in 1975 while presenting him during his first professional debute at Mr. Mac’s Jazz Club in Washington DC.

JOHN MALACHI (National Endowment of the Arts) LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION 1978. NOW’S THE TIME!

SHIRLEY HORN, A lifetime friend. Went to Elementary, Junior High and High School in Washington DC with his father

George V. Johnson Sr. Shirley always reminded GVJ Jr. to lay back and sing soft during Ballads while conducting the jazz workshop in DC for several years at the PigFoot Jazz Club after John Malachi left. It was her trademark on all her recordings.

GEORGE V JOHNSON SR. first exposed George Jr to jazz as a toddler

SAGGITARIUS - "Butchie" everyone called him was a real genine JAZZ baby and destined to sing jazz. The things he experience growing up were not taught in schools or Universities like they are today.

George V Johnson Jr is a "AMERICAN TREASURE".... An Endangered "HUMAN" Spiecies~~~Dr William Smith, Musician and Professor of Jazz @ American University, Wash. DC

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FEB 2, 2006 THE EAGLE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

Former Washington D.C. bus driver & New Jersey Train Conductor sings jazz, vocalese. By BEN LOZOVSKI

Imagine listening to a seasoned jazz musician rip into a bebop solo so sizzling and smooth it makes your senses tingle. Close your eyes and play along. Try and picture the sweat bouncing off the performer like the notes that leap through the air. See if you can hear the mesmerizing melodies go up and down, bringing you through joy and sadness, taking your emotions on a sensory experience unlike any other. Now picture that musician and his beloved instrument: His voice! THAT’S THE ART OF VOCALESE ! Working as a performer, a D.C. Metrobus driver and a New Jersey train conductor at different times throughout his life, Johnson’s latest work has taken the form of pedagogy. He has become a teacher and mentor to both aspiring and established vocalists from around the area, and most recently he has lent his years of experience and talent to AMERICAN UNIVERSITY, leading the AU jazz vocal ensemble. Read more: www.theeagleonline.com/news/2006/02/02/TheScene/

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George Sr’s best friend second to the right pianist Spencer Payne gave weekly jam sessions at his apartment on Benning RD SE, DC. Many of Washington’s up and coming local jazz legends dropped by and play including Spencer Payne’s close friend

KETER BETTS, bassist for Ella Fitzgeral. This was Johnson’s first exposure to Jazz. The children who were suppose to be sleep were peeking out the bedroom door and always managed to come out and have fun as well. The grownups would give them nickles and dimes to show them the latest dances. And sometimes let them sing. Jazz was a part of everyday life. It was safe, no fights, no guns, no shooting and no killing. Everybody had fun. They called them Jam Sessions but they were really "RENT PARTIES". The wives would sell dinners (Chitterlins, fried chicken, ribs, pigfeet, greens, cornbread, blackeye peas, yam, cakes and pies).

AMERICA! This is our Moment! This is our time!

Now's the Time!

THIS I DIG OF YOU (JAZZIN ROUND) Lyrics by: George V Johnson Jr

DOUG LAWRENCE, featured saxophonist LIVE @ JAZZ INN. Composer of "TOMMIE & TILLIE aka LOVELY STORY" Lyric by George V Johnson Jr were written 30 mins before the live session @ The Jazz InN. LAWRENCE is a talented instrumentalist, musical director, conductor, bandleader and master-class clinician who has performed and recorded with such diverse artists as Benny Goodman, Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, Sarah Vaughan, Stevie Wonder, and the 18-time Grammy Winning World Famous Count Basie Orchestra, with whom Doug presently tours the world playing lead tenor sax.

Johnson has written and performs Original Lyrics to over 40 Hank Mobley's tunes: Hank's Symphony, Soul Station, Dig Dis, No Room For Squares, East of The Village, This I Dig of You, Take Your Pick, Three Way Split, Split Feelings, Up A Step, Work Out, The Baptist Beat, My Groove Your Move, Soft Impressions, Hank's Waltz, Chain Reaction, Roll Call, Syrup & Biscuits, Snappin Out, Comin' Back, The Feelings Good, Uh Huh, Up Over and Out, Looking East, Cute N' Pretty, Third Time Around, Bossa For Baby, Ballin, Madeline, No More Goodbyes, The Break Through, Hank's Other Bag, Infra Rae, Straight NoFilter . . . and more. Commissioned by Second Floor Music to write lyrics to Hank Mobley's Compositions

Recorded Live in Albuquerque NM. In the living room at the Historic Bed 'N' Breakfast "THE JAZZ INN" www.jazzinn.com/gvj.html

The Great TINA PRATT the Queen of Tap "FREEDOM JAZZZ DANCE" CD "NEXT IN LINE" Live @ The 1st Trenton JAZz Festival. "My Showbiz Mother" I love her!

SIRAJ, saxophone "FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE" CD "Next In Line"

Mr. Funk "VICTOR JONES" - drums "FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE"...Wow!

George V Johnson Jr. "THE ART OF VOCALESE" performing Dizzy Gillespie's "A Night In Tunisisa" & PATIENCE HIGGINS @ MINTON'S PLAYHOUSE Grand Opening May 19, 2006. The first Jazz Singer to grace the stage in over 35 years since it's closing. THE HOUSE THAT MONK BUILT. PATIENCE HIGGINS was a featured artist on the 1998 double Grammy Award winning recording Dee Dee Bridgewater "DEAR ELLA". Other credits include tour and recording engagements with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Count Bassie Orchestra, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Short, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, The Pointer Sisters and Yoko Ono, among many others. Mr. Higgins is also well know for his work on Broadway, including The Wiz, Aint Misbehavin, Chicago, and many others, as well as numerous movie soundtracks. Patience currently serves as music director and performs with Tap Dance sensation SAVION GLOVER!

SAVION GLOVER

MINTON'S PLAYHOUSE

Minton’s Playhouse is a jazz club and bar located on the first floor of the Hotel Cecil at 210 West 118th Street in Harlem. Minton’s was founded by tenor saxophonist Henry Minton in 1938.[1] Minton’s is famous for its role in the development of modern jazz, also known as bebop, where in its jam sessions in the early 1940s, Thelonious Monk, Kenny Clarke, Charlie Christian, and Dizzy Gillespie, pioneered the new music. Minton’s thrived for three decades until its decline near the end of the 1960s, and its eventual closing in 1974.[2] After being shuttered for more than thirty years, the newly remodeled club reopened its doors on May 19, 2006, under the name Uptown Lounge at Minton’s Playhouse

ARNOLD STERLING, alto (Opening Night, Star Eyes, MOTHER AFRICA, My Little Suede Shoes, Mambo Inn) Arnold playing "Sonny Stitt's" alto saxophone given to him by Sonny's wife Pam Stitt. The Spirit Lives!

HERM HOPKINS (Opening Night, Mother Africa, Suede Shoes Live)

RAYMOND ANGRY, pianist (Opening Night, Mother Africa, Suede Shoes Live)

JAMES KING, bass (Opening Night, Mother Africa, Suede Shoes Live)

LENNY ROBINSON, drums (Opening Night, Mother Africa, Suede Shoes Live)

MOTHER AFRICA, MOTHER AFRICA, YES WE LOVE YOU MOTHER AFRICA

LYRICS BY GEORGE V JOHNSON JR 1981 DEDICATED TO NELSON MANDELA and all the Brothers and Sisters who fought, died and struggled to free South Africa of Aparthied. Words were written to a Pharoah Sanders improvised saxophone solo. The Art of African Jazz Vocalese. The instrumental version of Mother Africa (Nigerian Ju Ju Highlife) can be heard on the Pharoah Sander's CD "REJOICE" and features

The late Great OLATUNJI BABATUNDE, Nigeria - The Greatest Percussionist Ever to Grace the Planet.

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George V Johnson Jr's latest work in progress is a American Master Piece in the making. Lyrics to the Jazz version of DUKE ELLIINGTON's "NUTCRACKER SUITE" The OVERTURE

IMAGINE THE LYRICS TO DUKES SWINGING ORCHESTRATION. WORLD PREMIERE COMING SOON!

By the Russian composer PETER ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY. His final ballet composed in 1891-92 based on The Nutcracker and the Mouse King

CONGRATULATIONS TO JENNIFER LOPEZ & MARK ANTHONY.

THE MAMBO INN - MUSIC BY MARIO BAUZA

MARIO BAUZA (April 28, 1911 in Havana, Cuba - July 11, 1993 in New York City) was one of the most influential figures in the development of Latin jazz or as he referred to it, Afro-Cuban

THE MAMBO INN

Lyrics by George V Johnson Jr written to a IMPROVISED LOU DONALDSON saxophone solo in 1981 (The Art of Jazz Vocalese) Mambo!

CD Next In Line - compositions "MAMBO INN, MY LITTLE SUEDE SOES & STAR EYES" Features the Late HERMAN FOSTER

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FUNDRAISER FOR THE VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA PRODUCED BY GEORGE V JOHNSON JR. Monies donated to Higher Ground Relief Fund (Wynton Marsalis) & Habitat for Humanity (President Jimmy Carter). .Pictured is TWINS owner Kelly, GVJ & Wendy. Located in the heart of the exciting new U Street entertainment district, Twins Jazz serves up the finest in jazz and American, Ethiopian and Caribbean Cuisine. Founded in 1986 by Ethiopian twin sisters, Twins Jazz is one of Washington's Top Jazz clubs and best-kept secrets. We are home to Avant-garde artists,minor legends and the best of the local jazz scene.Their intimate, cultural setting, embedded with colored ceramic tiles and eclectic artwork by professional photographer Joseph Beasley.

BEASLEY creates a strong connection between our audience and performers. Most of the action takes place on stage, but Twins Jazz has got enough momentum to get you on your feet! No matter where you sit, you're practically with the band!

MAKE IT FUNKY! FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE WOW! Say it LOUD, I'm Black and I'm PROUD!

TAHIR HAMEED JOHNSON, Pure and Eternally blessed, Senior @ Howard University, School of Business (Marketing Management Major)

EVEN THOUGH I GREW UP WITH THE HIP HOP & RAP GENERATION, MY DAD TAUGHT ME AND MY BROTHERS ALL ABOUT JAZZ & FUNK. As children he took us to many of his concerts to watch him perform with James Moody and Lou Donaldson as well as the concerts he produced. On one occasion we drove to the Detroit, Michigan. On the way he practice the words to Miles Davis' "Bitches Brew the entire trip. For months me and brothers kept repeating the Bitches Brew will get to you. We were about 6 & 5 years old. My youngest brother wasn't born yet. When we got to the concert we watched him perform the composition live in front of thousands of jazz fans. Roy Brooks also played the "C" Saw. It was the most facinating thing I've ever seen. I didn't know the SAW was a instrument until I heard and watched ROY BROOKS.

ROY BROOKS

ROY BROOKS AND THE ARTISTIC TRUTH at the Detroit Montreau Jazz Festival. A Live NPR Coast to Coast Radio Broadcast Tribute to Miles Davis. "BITCHES BREW" which can be heard on the CD "NEXT IN LINE"

6 Month European Tour with Howard University performing with the Broadway Musical "RAISIN". St Gallen, Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Baden, Appenzel, Lugano, Litchenstein, Paris France 3 months. GVJ 2nd person bottom right corner. * * * * * * * *

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

A REAL TEAR JERKER - You won't be able to put it DOWN! Pass this on to your children from generation to generation. Highly recommended for young black men, especially those who like to use the "N" word! Say It Loud! I'm black and I'm Proud!

MY BROTHER SIFU DEREK JOHNSON First and only African American to have his name etched on the sacred wall in China with Kung Fu Masters. Three schools in Germany, Poland and home based in Columbia Mdwww.jowtigers.com

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QUINCY TROUPE - While performing at Minton's Playhouse I hung out with Quincy Troupe the entire evening talking about Miles Davis. Early that evening we met at John Hicks going home celebration. One of the best books I ever read. It changed my whole perspective on people, music and life. Kudos to Quincy! Thanks for sharing those beautiful stories...

A TRUE WARRIOR! Many died and lost their lives, but Nelson Mandelsa continued to fight from inside the Prisonn Walls until he Slaughered the BIG Giant "APARTHEID". One of the Greatest "HERO's of the Century.

THINKING IN JAZZ

Paul F. Berliner has written a monumental book in at least two senses: in its sheer length (more than 500 pages of text and 250 pages of musical examples) and in the thoroughness with which he addresses his topic. His primary concern is the learning process of the jazz musician. He notes that, "without the aid of formal educational institutions or instruction" (6), many musicians amass a great deal of musical technical knowledge and develop exceptional ...(several passages by George V Johnson Jr)

www.secondfloormusic.com

Jazz Phrasing is a perfect workbook for all jazz vocalists. It covers: Specific Rhythm Phrasing – interpreting 8th notes, specific rhythm figures; The accompanying CD lets you: compare transcriptions to recorded examples, listen to vocal and instrumental examples, sing along with the rhythm section, create backgrounds and analyze arrangements. (includes lyrics by Geo V Johnson Jr)