The Breeze And I
King Of Organ With A Beat
Souped-Up Organ, Vibes, Piano, Accordion Rhythm & Bones
Volume 3
Kandy Records SLK 144
From the back cover: At age 6, Don tinkered with a make-shift drum set along-side the radio. At age 8, he envied a childhood playmate who could play "Nola" on the piano so he studied until he too, could play as well. Observing a vaudeville drummer winning more applause than a whole orchestra or any of the acts from his clowning, artistry and sound gimmicks, Don influenced his 12th year birthday present: a brand new set of drums complete with whistles and gadgets galore. His drumming talent won him a place in the senior high school band years ahead of schedule, his own dance bands and prizes from talent contests. Intending music to remain a hobby, Don studied classical piano, played percussion in high school orchestra and, later French and Baritone horns in the band. His piano playing put him through three years of college training in Engineering until called to military duty, World War II.
With papers in hand for re-entering University of Michigan's school of Engineering after four years in the military, Don waited for a plane to fly him from Seattle, Washington to his home town, Muskegon, Michigan. The plane was three hours late and Don whiled away the time on an electric organ at the airport dining room. The reactions from those who heard him that day, the post-war demand for this "new" electric organ in booming night clubs, plus his passion for music – all suddenly influenced Don, age 24, to become a full-time traveling organist. A well-rounded musical background, two solid years of concentrated organ study and ten successful years of night club performances – all helped to qualify Don Johnson's genius in producing these tremendous albums...
Sweet Georgia Brown
Tea For Two
Moonglow And Theme From Picnic
Josephine
Jalousie
Bye Bye Blues
Five Foot Two Eyes Of Blue
Brazil The Breeze And I
Happy Organ
The Shiek Of Araby
Mighty Low
Hard to believe there were already two volumes before this one, no? I have this LP too! A close look at that female dancer's legs and torso would indicate she might be capable of lifting one end of your car...
ReplyDeleteMaestro Vincent Geraci on Accordian
ReplyDeleteDon Johnson passed away 8/30/19 at age 97. He died peacefully in his sleep. He is survived by 2 children, 2 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. He will be missed! RIP Don
ReplyDeleteMy Uncle Don Johnson has pass away, he was the last survivor of 4 brother. I can recall When my uncle Don owned Music Kiss in Muskegon Michigan.
ReplyDeleteI had my first job there at 19 as a waitress. I remember him well. I have several of his 45 vinyl records on the Kandy Label. I am 74 now.
DeleteWe just recently been inform my Uncle Don Johnson has pass away. He was the last survivor of 3 other brothers. I recall my Uncle Don owned Music Kiss in Muskegon Michigan near Mona Lake. Our family has fallen appart over all the years. We lose everyone we love and all that remains is the memory we have to keep the spirit of those we have lost alive.
ReplyDelete