Will H. Johnson
Inspired at a young age by guitar heroes like Jimi Hendrix and Joe Satriani, Will H. Johnson followed in their footsteps before gradually melding into an acoustic singer-songwriter. With a knack for electric leads and a fast understanding of chord progressions, he learned to practice along with all his favorite CDs. By honing his performance skills at talent shows and guitar contests, Johnson gained a sense of stage presence. The early years culminated in a 1st place showing at a Battle of the Bands, final round placings at The Great Alaska Riff Contest, a coveted "1" at Solo & Ensemble, and a performance at his own high school graduation.
In 1996, Johnson felt the need to explore songwriting. After grinding out a handful of originals, he fronted the folk-rock band No Preservatives Added. The group featured Johnson's newly-penned lyrics and trusty guitar, backed by vocal harmonies, piano and percussion. After hastily recording a low-budget CD, the band would prove to be short lived. One member resigned, and those remaining were conflicted by stylistic differences. In the meantime, Johnson at last won the Great Alaska Riff guitar contest (1998), and also discovered a knack for the game of Poker. When winning ways continued, Johnson shelved his music to concentrate on this new-found art. However, his musical fire would not be extinguished for long...
Seeking a fresh start, Johnson attended the Alaska Midnight Sun Song Camp in the Summer of 2002. Workshops and writing excercises proved inspirational, and soon he was playing out again. After a chance meeting with Sean Mormelo at an open mic night in Anchorage, Johnson told his story. Mormelo offered his services and the two immediately began recording. After months of diligent work they completed "Paper & Fire" (2004).
A year later, Johnson packed his bags for Bellingham, Washington after being invited by a friend. His purpose: adventure, exploration, and a change of scenery. The new perspective has had its effect on the next batch of songs; Johnson is set to commence recording of "Highway of Souls" very soon.
VENUES WILL HAS PLAYED:
North Slope Restaruant, Eagle River, AK
Sleepy Dog Coffee, Eagle River, AK
Jitters, Eagle River, AK
Great Bear Brewing Co, Wasilla, AK
Wasilla Amphitheatre, Wasilla, AK
Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival, Talkeetna, AK
Snow Goose, Anchorage, AK
Humpy's, Anchorage, AK
Long Branch Saloon, Anchorage, AK
The Alley, Anchorage, AK
Benihana, Anchorage, AK
Downtown Markets, Anchorage, AK
UAA Students Center, Anchorage, AK
Anchorage Folk Festival, Anchorage, AK
Green Frog Acoustic Tavern, Bellingham, WA
Chiribin's, Bellingham, WA
Fantasia Espresso, Bellingham, WA
Hotwire Coffee, Seattle, WA
The Flying Lion, Seattle, WA
Twin Paradox, Portland, OR