JJ Johnson

Gretsch Artist Since: 2018

Country: US

Band or Affiliations: Gary Clark Jr.

Current Kit Setup:
Broadkaster in Solid Black Nitron
12x20 BD, 8x13 RT, 14x14 FT, 16x16 FT, 6x14SD, 8x14SD
6.5x14 USA Bell Brass SD

Influences:
Elvin Jones, Al Jackson Jr., Levon Helm, and Kenneth Buttrey.

We asked...Why Gretsch?:
"They’re the finest drums I’ve played to date, I appreciate their long history, and many of my favorite drummers play them. It’s great to finally get the oppoutunity to play the greatest drums in the world. "

Advice to aspiring musicians?:
"You've got to put the work and time in, to be armed and prepared, Being in position is being in any position. Then, also doing it with feeling, and learning from it. Those are important principles for me. The camaraderie of a unit on tour and the energy of playing for a live audience is incredibly special. When the lights go down and everyone hits the stage, it brings you to life and reminds you what you’re here to do.”

Bio:
Growing up in San Antonio and Austin, TX, JJ Johnson has built a tremendous reputation as a masterful drummer with his polyrhythmic grooves and pin-dropping dynamics coupled with his thunderous power and intensity. He has backed some of music’s most talented artists such as Tedeschi-Trucks Band, John Mayer, Lenny Kravitz, Sugarland, Doyle Bramhall II, Boz Scaggs, and currently plays in Gary Clark Jr’s band.