Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon
Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon were an influential vocal soul group in the United States, having gained prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The group is best known for its unique sound and dynamic performances that captivated audiences during this era.
The group was originally formed in 1967, initially going by the name The Bandwagon. It comprised four talented former solo singers who decided to collaborate. The lineup included Johnny Johnson as the lead singer, along with Artie Fullilove, Billy Bradley, and Terry Lewis. They joined forces to create a distinct blend of vocal harmonies that characterized their music.
Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon were known primarily for their vocal soul style, which combined elements of pop and rhythm and blues. Their music featured prominent melodies and heartfelt lyrics, appealing to a wide audience. The group captured the essence of the soul genre, and their work was marked by strong vocal performances led by Johnny Johnson.
Throughout their career, they released several popular singles that helped solidify their place in the music scene of the time. Their music often resonated with themes of love, heartbreak, and social issues, which were prevalent in the soul genre during the late ’60s.
While Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some of their contemporaries, they made a significant impact on the vocal soul genre. Their influence can be seen in the work of later artists who drew inspiration from their sound and style. Despite being less celebrated in the music history narrative, they remain an important part of the American soul music landscape.
Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon
Written-By – E. Lilljequist
A2 Stoned Soul Picnic
Written-By – L. Nyro
A3 Breakin' Down The Walls Of Heartache
Written-By – D. Randell, S. Linzer
A4 I Wish It Would Rain
Written-By – S. Strong, N. Whitfield, R. Penzabene
A5 You Blew Your Cool And Lost Your Fool
Written-By – A. Fullilove
A6 You
Written-By – D. Randell
B1 People Got To Be Free
Written-By – E. Bragati Jr., F. Cavaliere
B2 Girl From Harlem
Written-By – D. Randell, S. Linzer
B3 Are You Ready For This?
Written-By – J. Ross, M. Barkan, R. Adams
B4 I Ain't Lyin'
Written-By – J. Johnson
B5 Don't Let It In
Written-By – A. Fullilove
B6 Baby Make Your Own Sweet Music
Written-By – D. Randell, S. Linzer
Label: Direction – 8-63500
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1968
Genre: R&B Soul, Pop
Style: Sixties Soul, Pop-Soul
Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon's self-titled debut album (1968) is a notable example of late-1960s pop-soul, praised for its high production quality and catchy songs, though some critics have viewed it as an American act specifically tailored for the British market. The group's sound has been compared favorably to early Motown.
Music critics often describe the group as a dynamic and underappreciated R&B act, especially in their home country. Their relative lack of success in the US compared to the UK is a frequent point of discussion.
Johnny Johnson's lead vocals are noted for their "gospel fire," which brings passion and energy to the material, regardless of how commercial it is. The group's strong harmonies and fine arrangements are also considered staples of their work.
The album features an upbeat, commercial pop-soul style that proved very popular in the UK, where they had several Top 40 hits. This style, however, was sometimes seen as predictable and less fashionable compared to contemporaries exploring funkier sounds like Sly & the Family Stone.
The record, produced by Denny Randell with arrangements by Artie Schroeck, is generally well-produced, with critics noting its vibrant and fresh sound that has held up over time.
In summary, the album is a well-regarded slice of classic soul music that features powerful vocals and expertly crafted pop songs, even if critical acclaim at the time was perhaps overshadowed by the dominance of other soul acts.