M.J. Live! Volume 1 (solo sessions) consists entirely of original compositions inspired by the the blues, jazz, R&B and soul music which shaped M.J's love of music as a child. These solo performances tell a story of family trauma, mental health struggles and feelings of loss. Volume 1 turns these painful experiences into a celebration of overcoming hardships and making something beautiful out of dark times. Some of the music (Jump!) focus on the positive feelings which music can create and others (Mae) are inspired by the people who inspire us.
Volumes 1 & 2
NOW STREAMING!
M.J. LIVE! Volume 2 (Trio sessions) consists of M.J's arrangements of jazz standards for the piano trio. The classic live trio recordings of Ahmad Jamal, Oscar Peterson and Bill evans (just to name a few) played a major role in M.J's musical journey. Volume 2 aims to expand upon the "classic live jazz album" sound, highlighting that the music heard is strongly connected to the time, place and people present while recording. Further, the arrangements and solos combine traditional bebop vocabulary with more modern influences spanning many genres while still maintaining the blues, jazz and soul music foundation that has always inspired M.J.'s playing.
M.J. Johnston combines blues, jazz, R&B, bluegrass, and rock music to create his own unique sound at the piano. Though his musical influences are diverse and ever-expanding, M.J. never forgets his Chicago roots infusing the blues and soul music of his childhood into his playing. After performing around the country for the last 23 years, M.J. released his first solo album, "M.J. Live!" in 2023. The album features five original compositions performed solo, as well as five arrangements of Jazz standards performed with his trio. The album was recorded in one take in front of a live audience. M.J. currently lives and performs in Portland, Oregon. Contact M.J. to schedule a performance.