Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

August 11, 1873 in Jacksonville, FL

Death

:

November 11, 1954 in New York City, NY

Genre

:

Vocal

 

J. Rosamond Johnson was a prominent African American composer, arranger, and singer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born on August 11, 1873, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Helen Louise Dillet and James Johnson. His father was a prominent lawyer and politician, and his mother was a musician and teacher. Johnson grew up in a musical family, and his mother taught him and his brother, James Weldon Johnson, how to play the piano and sing. Johnson began his musical career as a member of his mother's choir, which performed at local churches and events. He also studied music at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he learned to play the violin and studied composition. After completing his studies, Johnson returned to Jacksonville and began performing with his brother, James, as a musical duo. They performed at local events and eventually became known as the "Johnson Brothers." In 1899, Johnson moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He quickly became involved in the city's vibrant music scene and began performing with some of the most prominent African American musicians of the time, including Will Marion Cook and Bob Cole. Johnson also began composing and arranging music, and his first major success came in 1900 with the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing," which he wrote with his brother, James. "Lift Every Voice and Sing" quickly became an anthem for the African American community and was often performed at civil rights events and other important occasions. The song's powerful lyrics and stirring melody made it a favorite of many, and it remains a beloved hymn to this day. In addition to "Lift Every Voice and Sing," Johnson composed and arranged many other songs and musical works throughout his career. He was particularly known for his work in the field of musical theater, and he wrote and arranged music for several successful shows, including "The Shoo-Fly Regiment" and "A Trip to Coontown." Johnson's music was often characterized by its catchy melodies, lively rhythms, and incorporation of African American musical traditions. Despite his success as a composer and performer, Johnson faced many challenges as an African American musician in the early 20th century. He often had to perform in segregated venues and faced discrimination and prejudice from many in the music industry. However, he remained committed to his music and continued to create and perform throughout his life. Johnson died on November 11, 1954, in New York City. His legacy as a composer and arranger lives on, and his music continues to be celebrated and performed by musicians around the world. Johnson's contributions to the world of classical music and his role in the African American musical tradition make him an important figure in the history of American music.

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