Howard Johnson is a singer whose talent goes way beyond the handful of hits for which he is best known. Born on November 28, 1956, in Miami, Florida, Johnson began his musical journey at a young age, displaying a natural inclination for singing.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Howard Johnson rose to prominence as a lead vocalist for the Niteflyte band, contributing to hits like “If You Want It” and “You Are.” And that success opened the door for a terrific, but somewhat understated, solo career.
Johnson was signed to A&M records and came out smoking. Teamed in 1982 with the production and songwriting trio of uber-hot Kashif, Paul Laurence and Morris Brown, Johnson shot right to the top of the charts with the funky “So Fine” released in 1982. Over the next three years, Johnson issued a number of additional charters, including “Keepin’ Love New,” and the Top 30 “Stand Up,” before his major label recording career ended.
Johnson has remained active, and issued the fun single “Jam” with B & The Family in 2021. And he still sounds great.
By Chris Rizik
