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Norman Johnson

Lyrical and tasteful are the words used to describe Norman Johnson’s guitar playing. Norman has performed with such notables as Jerry Bergonzi, Bill Mays, Harvie S., Dave Brubeck, Phil Wilson, Chris Brubeck, and Pete Levin. In 1995, Norman, along with vocalist Dianne Mower, released their first collaborative cd “Maybe September” featuring Harvie S. This was followed by the big band recording “The New Millennium Jazz Ensemble” which featured Dianne Mower, Harvie S. and Bill Mays.

Norman was a partner in “J/P Productions” through the 80’s and 90’s where he composed original music for clients including UPS, IBM, Pratt & Whitney, and Otis. In 1997 He won “the Communicator” Award for a music/video production for Otis Elevator entitled “Otis in China”.

Since 1998, Norman has been performing with his quintet, “The Norman Johnson Group” and has now completed a CD with the group and friends. The CD includes many of Norman’s original compositions.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Norman moved to Brooklyn N.Y., and then to Connecticut where he now resides with his wife Maryanne. He attended the Hartford Conservatory and the Hartt School of Music. Norman was the Dean of Music at the Hartford Conservatory through the 1990s, and has a faculty position at the Greater Hartford Academy of Arts. He opened his recording studio “Manor Recording” in 1987 and continues to record and produce local and International artists.

Norman Johnson: If Time Stood Still

Read "If Time Stood Still" reviewed by Jerry D'Souza

by Jerry D'Souza
October 3, 2010

Norman Johnson was in high school in Jamaica when he heard George Benson and became interested in the guitar. He says that he was mesmerized by Benson, and though he figured that he was too old at 16 to begin playing an instrument he went ahead. Later studying at the Hartt School of Music with Jackie McLean and Brian Keane, his influences grew to include Wes Montgomery, Earl Klugh, and Andres Segovia. Segovia fostered his love for classical music and, ...

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Recording

Guitarist Norman Johnson Releases Debut CD, "If Time Stood Still," August 10 on Pacific Coast Jazz

Source: Sound Visions Media
June 23, 2010

If Time Stood Still, the debut solo release from guitarist Norman Johnson on the Pacific Coast Jazz label, is an exquisite expression of music that has been waiting to happen. From sonic grooves reminiscent of Wes Montgomery and George Benson to the mysterious, sultry melodies that frame Johnson's distinctive sound, this recording integrates the best of contemporary and traditional jazz. With over twenty recordings as a sideman, playing with highly respected musicians (Dave Brubeck, Jerry Bergonzi, Bill Mays, Harvie S., ...
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By Dee Dee McNeil

From the very first strains of Norman Johnson’s guitar magic, I am under his spell. His music is full of joy for life. Johnson’s melodies are infectuous. On the first tune, “Slide” he makes me want to skip across the room. There is something light and carefree about this production of Johnson’s compositions. “Sing On” is another original composition by Norman Johnson that encourages us to come together as a people and features Grayson Hugh on vocals. This song is a blend of R&B, Pop and jazz. The repeatable ‘hook’ of the song reminds me a small bit of a Curtis Mayfield production