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Maurice Johnson

Milwaukee born guitar veteran, Maurice Johnson first gained notice in 1985 shortly after forming the Oklahoma City based, “After Five” band. Considered the young lions of jazz, “After Five” gained a great deal of popularity, sharing the stage with major acts including, George Benson, George Howard, Norman Brown, Nancy Wilson, Al Green, Alex Bungon, Stanley Turrentine, Little Melton, Mary Wright,

Ronny Laws, Jennifer Holiday, Freddy Jackson, Larry Coryell, Barney Kessel and many others. In 1991 the group signed with New York label, Warlock Records and released the EXPRESSIONS CD. After a nearly ten-year stint, “After Five” would ultimately disband.

As the early 90’s unfolded, Maurice found himself at the helm of a unique industry as co-founder of D’Leco Acoustic Instruments with luthier / partner James W. Dale. The two built and marketed handcrafted archtop guitars.

After a chance encounter with the daughter of legendary Jazz great, Charlie Christian they designed and licensed two exclusive lines of Charlie Christian guitar models to American manufacturer, Gibson Guitars and Samick Musical Instruments in Korea.

Between 1996 and 2003 Maurice authored three nationally published music related books with Mel Bay Publishing, Mix Books and Artist Pro Press. During this time he would develop the popular windows based, Gigorama software.

Today, Maurice’s focus has turned back to his love of music with the recent release of his "Tonight" CD, and is currently producing under the artist- owned, Jazz Drops Records labe

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Album Review

Maurice Johnson: Peace Love & Jazz

Read "Peace Love & Jazz" reviewed by James Nadal


Since forming his band in Oklahoma City in 1985, guitarist Maurice Johnson has carefully carved out a niche in the local jazz scene there and on his release Peace Love & Jazz, he displays the talent, tone, and technique to be a force to reckon with for years to come. The multi-talented Johnson is also a versatile composer, author, producer and a master luthier who designs and builds custom handcrafted archtop jazz guitars.There is no mistaking Johnson comes ...

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Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

Peace Love & Jazz

Jazz Drops Records
2013

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Tonight

Jazz Drops Records
0

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La Casa Del Moreo

From: Tonight
By Maurice Johnson

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