Daniel Johnson’s incredible voice has enabled him to travel some very special roads on his extraordinary musical journey. He has earned the reputation of being a highly sought after vocalist, writer, producer, arranger and music director. A Los Angeles, California native and son of a singer and musician, Daniel grew up surrounded by great music and impeccable gifts, working first as a youth and adult choir director, and eventually as the worship leader in his local church.His professional music career started at the age of 16 when he began singing with gospel music pioneer Andrae Crouch, whom he credits as being a significant influence in his creative and ethical growth.
“I discovered my passion early on for music. When I was asked to step in and become the worship leader at my church, I didn’t want to go through that door. At the time, all I wanted to do was work with the choir, go to college, and ultimately, get a regular 9 to 5 job and live an ordinary family life. Looking back in retrospect, however, I realize it was a door that God opened just for me.”
Daniel has gone on to sing with Andrae Crouch and to record several successful albums. While a member of the Andrae Crouch Singers, producer Tommy Sims, asked if the group would sing background vocals on Israel Houghton’s “Real” album. After the recording session, Israel Houghton asked Daniel to become a member of Israel & New Breed; an endeavor that relocated Daniel from Los Angeles, California to Houston, Texas within the first few years of him performing with the band.
Daniel has toured extensively as a member of Israel & New Breed. He performed on their popular albums Live From Another Level on which he sang “There’s Not A Friend,” and Alive In South Africa on which he sang “Surely,” “The Presence,” and “Favor of the Lord.” In addition to his work with New Breed, he has toured with artists including Martha Munizzi, Andrae Crouch, Chris Tomlin, and Darius Rucker.
Daniel’s sultry sound has afforded him the opportunity to share on numerous recordings with artists including, Marvin Sapp, Mary Mary, Karen Clark-Sheard, JoAnn Rosario, Dave Hollister, Bishop T.D. Jakes, as well as many other notable recording artists. “It has been a wonderful journey for me, that’s not nearly over...it’s just the beginning. I am very thankful I have been fortunate to be able to learn from some phenomenal people along the way.”
With the recording of his first solo album, Daniel has put together a remarkable music career thus far that many people can only dream of. The project’s title track, “You Make Me,” is a vibrant, but soulful song that will remind listeners of music sensation D’Angelo – well known as one of the pioneers of the “neo soul” movement. This song and much of the album was inspired by Daniel’s father who was a west coast quartet singer. The album brings a strong rhythmic groove reminiscent of Earth, Wind and Fire, and the crooning gospel style of Al Green; all while promoting God.
Gospel inspired fans will appreciate the warmth that Daniel has put into this project. He sings from his soul and delivers the true essence of his love for Christ in a way that is transparent and real. “You Make Me” brings something different, but will capture listeners’ attention and pierce their hearts with the prevailing tone and quality they can expect from a worship album.