George V. Johnson Jr. — Story, Legacy & Personal Archive

A vocalist, lyricist and educator whose musical life connects generations of jazz. George’s specialty is vocalese: writing and singing lyrics to instrumental compositions and improvised solos. His story begins in Washington, D.C., and continues through recordings, international stages and teaching in Ghana.

Explore the Historical Archive

These full-length accounts preserve the people, places and experiences behind George’s music. Start with the career overview below, then continue into the original recollections and liner notes.

• Eddie Jefferson & My Musical Beginnings — George’s complete personal reminiscence, including his family, early influences, mentorship, performances and memories of other artists.
• John Malachi, Washington Jazz & the Album — Rusty Hassan’s full liner-note account, below.
• Career & Community Archive — the extended personal story previously on the homepage, below, including teaching, touring, recordings, theater and the Ghana chapter.
• The Music of Hank Mobley — the lyric-writing project and its original materials.
• Career Photo Archive and Reviews & Liner Notes — photographs, tributes and historical coverage.

Historical references describe their original periods. For current work and inquiries, visit Ghana, Bookings or Online Lessons.

From Washington to the World

At Washington’s Pigfoot jazz club, pianist John Malachi became an important mentor and gave George the name “Your Majesty.” Eddie Jefferson’s mentorship deepened his commitment to vocalese. George went on to perform with James Moody and record with Pharoah Sanders.

Career Highlights

• 1970s: Developed his voice in Washington’s jazz community with John Malachi and Eddie Jefferson.
• 1981: Sang his lyrics to John Coltrane’s “Moment’s Notice” on Pharoah Sanders’ album Rejoice.
• Hank Mobley project: Began writing lyrics to Mobley’s music following a 2003 commission from Don Sickler.
• 2022: Released the eight-track album Walk Spirit Talk Spirit on Your Majesty Music LLC.
• Ghana: A chapter of music education and community work in Bakpe; named and installed as development chief on November 16, 2025.

Explore the Recordings · The Hank Mobley Project · The Ghana Chapter · Career Photo Archive

Bring George’s Music to Your Stage · Press & Radio Resources

John Malachi, Washington Jazz & the Album

The following liner notes offer broadcaster Rusty Hassan’s perspective on George’s journey and the musicians behind the album. They are preserved as part of the artist’s historical record.

By Rusty Hassan — broadcaster since 1966

GEORGE V. JOHNSON has had an incredible journey leading up to this recording and I have been a witness to the ride since the beginning in the 1970s. The title “Your Majesty” comes from John Malachi who mentored George when he was getting started with his vocalese. Not hip to John Malachi? If your listening to the music of George Johnson, you probably are, but just in case…  

John Malachi was born in North Carolina but grew up in Washington, DC. As a teenager he and fellow pianist Billy Taylor would check out Jelly Roll Morton at the Jungle Inn on U Street. One of his closest friends was Thomas Barrett, my wife Sondra’s dad. John’s talent was such that Billy Eckstine recruited him to be the pianist in the band he was forming in 1944 which included Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon, Gene Ammons, Art Blakey and Sarah Vaughan,. John gave her the name "Sassy".

He was an integral participant in the creation of bebop. I would be the fly on the wall listening to stories about Mr. B’s band and the exploits of Diz, Bird and Dex whenever Tom Barrett and John Malachi would get together. 

 Around 1974 guitarist Bill Harris opened a club in Northeast Washington DC called Pigfoot where John would preside as the pianist to accompany such artists as Kenny Burrell, Al Hibbler, Arthur Prysock, Milton "Smitty" Smith, Clea Bradford, Frank Foster, Billy Mitchell, Leon Thomas and many more. He conducted workshops for aspiring musicians and vocalists. His prize student was a Metro bus driver named George V. Johnson Jr.

 I was broadcasting the New Thing Root Music Show on WAMU at that time and lived in the neighborhood of Pigfoot. Shirley Horn lived a few blocks away on Lawrence Street and Andrew White down South Dakota Avenue. Bill Harris’s club was a center of jazz activity and George was in the midst of it. John introduced him to his close friends such as Art Blakey, Lou Donaldson and Eddie Jefferson. He would tape interviews that I did on the air with such prominent musicians as Dexter Gordon and others.

George and John developed such a close friendship that he introduced him as Your Majesty George V Johnson Jr "Opening Night" of his debut professional concert at the Pigfoot.

George made it his mantra and thus the title for this album.

The Vocalese Tradition

 Under John’s tutelage George was working on what is called in jazz circles vocalese, singing a lyric to what was originally an improvised solo by an instrumentalist. The father of vocalese is Eddie Jefferson who wrote and sang lyrics to James Moody’s instrumental version of “I’m In The Mood For Love,” later known as “Moody’s Mood For Love.” King Pleasure recorded and had a hit with it, but Jefferson gained recognition by recording and touring with Moody. Other singers who have utilized vocalese include Lambert, Hendricks & Ross and Manhattan Transfer. Jefferson performed frequently with Richie Cole in DC in the 1970s and when he heard George Johnson perform he was so impressed with his vocalese that he tagged him “Next in Line.” 

George’s journey took him to Europe in 1979 with a Howard University 6 month European tour of the musical “Raisin.” It was while in Paris on May 9th that he received a telegram from Bill Harris informing him that Eddie Jefferson had been murdered in Detroit. Upon his return to the States and a tribute to Jefferson at Blues Alley, George took a train to New York and scuffled, frequently sleeping on the subway but catching as many performances as he could and making connections – Lou Donaldson, Harold Mabern, Barry Harris, George Coleman, Roy Brooks. Clifford Jordan, Jimmy Cobb, Benny Golson – the heavy hitters of the music. Leon Thomas introduced him to Pharoah Sanders who had him sing his original lyrics to John Coltrane’s “Moment’s Notice” on his album “Rejoice” in 1981. James Moody brought him into his group to tour 8 years in 1979.

 Another day gig, this time with New Jersey Transit paid the bills and supported his family while living in that state for the next couple of decades, all the while continuing to perform and write lyrics. Retirement from the railroad has allowed him devote full time to his music with a return to DC as his home base. (There was some time in Detroit, but that’s another story for his autobiography.)

Inside the Album

It has been incredible journey leading up to “Your Majesty” and as George opens “Gravy Train” all aboard for some great music. For this recording he has assembled some of the finest musicians from the Washington metropolitan area. Pianist Allyn Johnson provided the setting with his Divine Order Recording Studio and demonstrated his incredible chops on all of the numbers. He directs the jazz program at the University of the District of Columbia and is the most in demand pianist in the area. Donvonte McCoy is on trumpet. He has performed with artists diverse such as Lionel Hampton, Jason Moran and Aretha Franklin. Elijah Easton is the saxophonist whose youthful dynamism on the date demonstrates that the music is in good hands for the next generation. Herman Burney is the bassist on half the session; Steve Arnold on the other. Steve came to DC from Massachusetts to attend George Washington University. Herman was his bass instructor. Baltimore native Dana Hawkins attended Berklee and was the drummer with the late NEA Jazz Master Dr. Lonnie Smith and with Ravi Coltrane. 

The album opens with “Knarrative Will Set Us Free (Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit)” by McCoy Tyner. George’s lyrics reflect on Knarrative, the Africana studies project to provide African Americans and the African Diaspora with quality curated information. It was inspired by DrGregCarr & Prof KarenHunter |  KNARRATIVE. Allyn takes McCoy’s influence and then distills it into his own style. George demonstrates that he can make philosophy swing.

 “All Aboard The Gravy Train” is part of the lineage that goes back to Duke Ellington’s “Daybreak Express” and James Moody’s “Last Train From Overbrook.” Lou Donaldson’s contribution t the genre is certainly appropriate given the decades long friendship between the two and George’s experience as a conductor. All Aboard indeed – it’s a great ride!

 In 2003 DonSickler commissioned George to write lyrics to the music of saxophonist Hank Mobley. I remember it well because I collaborated on the project. George borrowed a number of my Mobley recordings, my contribution to his work. The 25 CDs have long been back in my collection, but George has completed writing words to over 40 of Mobley’s compositions. “Squares Stay Out (No Room For Squares)” is from this important and extensive project presenting jazz vocalese. All of the musicians are in great form on this hard bop classic.     

 The journey continues with Wes Montgomery’s “Music Round The World (Road Song)” and McCoy Tyner’s “Come Fly Away With Me (Fly With The Wind).” Herbie Hancock’s “Cantaloup Island” is the only song for which George did not write the lyrics but he sure does a remarkable vocalese with Mark Murphy’s. Bird Lives on “Go Moose The Mooch,” a bebop romp. John Malachi would be proud of what George Johnson has done to preserve Charlie Parker’s legacy.

 “Jive Samba” was a big hit for Cannonball Adderly when his brother Nat added some funk to the bossa nova. George and the cats take it beyond Rio into the stratosphere.

 It has been quite a journey for George V. Johnson to get to “Your Majesty.” Enjoy the ride he takes you through his music on this album.

Written by RustyHassan

Career & Community Archive

This expanded account preserves material previously presented on the homepage. It includes earlier career recollections and historical descriptions. The Ghana ceremony date has been corrected with George’s confirmation; visit the Ghana page for a concise project overview.

Ghana & Community

Mawunyo Dorla Aka, George V Johnson Jr., one of the few notable African American Jazz Singers, and International recording artist that resides in Ghana, Africa 🇬🇭 

Johnson is a Master of the Art of Jazz Vocalese, A Complete Entertainer! One who specializes in writing and singing lyrics to improvised solos.  This lyricist, actor, playwright, producer, promoter, narrator, Voice-overs,  composer and contributing editor was born in Washington DC. 

Johnson relocated to Ghana in December 2024, as a volunteer artist-in-residence teaching vocal music at Bakpe DA Basic School and JHS  He presently, resides in Ho, West Volta Region Ghana 

A Commitment to Teaching

During the 80s and 90s, George was a volunteer vocal music teacher at (Pan African School) APAS  African Peoples Action School in Trenton NJ. 

While working as a trainman conductor for NJT Railroad. During his 5 hour layover in Penn Station NYC, he would catch an Amtrak Train to Trenton NJ, teach for two hours and return to New York. 

He is very proud to say that Diallo Sumbry former Ghana Tourism Ambassador Appointed in 2018, Sumbry was instrumental in Ghana's  “Year of Return,” The 400 Year anniversary of the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade, was one of his former students at ages 10 to 13 until his family relocated to Washington DC. His mother Mama Makini and father Aula Sumbry were Co-founders of the school.

Sumbry directs partnerships at AfricanAncestry.com, creating programs for ancestral reconnection and citizenship. He is the former president of the African American Association of Ghana (AAAG). 

On November 16, 2025, George’s naming ceremony and installation as Bakpe development chief took place. His Ewe name is Togbe Mawunyo Dorla.

The development Chief, often use their international experience and connections to attract sponsors and development partners to their communities.

They also work in partnership with government bodies and other development organizations to enhance the living conditions and human dignity of their people 

This can include establishing educational funds, advocating for health initiatives, promoting business, and securing funding for projects.

He looks forward to becoming citizen of Ghana 

Washington Roots

He is also CEO and Founder of  Jazz in Washington DC  Facebook 

Born on December 20, in the heart of Washington D.C., George V Johnson Jr. was destined to fill the world with his distinctive vocal stylings. From his roots in the nation's capital, Johnson would go on to become one of the most respected and influential figures in jazz. This biography attempts to trace the life, career, and enduring legacy of this unique jazz artist.

George was introduced to music at a young age, growing up in a vibrant neighborhood pulsating with a mix of gospel, rhythm and blues, and jazz. His father, George Sr., was an avid jazz fan who filled their home with the sounds of, Ray Charles, Frankie Lymon, Sam Cook, Charlie Parker, Duke Ellington,  Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, King Pleasure, James Brown, and particularly, Eddie Jefferson, the founder of the Art of Jazz Vocalese singing. (writing and singing lyrics to Improvised solos.)  This early immersion played a vital role in shaping George's musical tastes and ambitions. 

Upon graduating from Spingarn High School in 1968, George had already begun gaining a local reputation for his smooth and distinctive voice.

He initially worked as a bus operator for WMATA, and was determined to make his mark in the jazz scene of Washington D.C., and he found his first opportunity when he began performing at a local jazz club owned by guitarist Bill Harris called “PIGFOOT.”

With John Malachi, George refined his vocal skills, crafting his unique brand of vocalese that paid homage to his hero, Eddie Jefferson, while introducing his own dynamic flair. He quickly gained popularity, performing locally throughout the DMV and putting George on the jazz map.

In 1980, George caught the attention of the legendary saxophonist, James Moody, and he was asked to join Moody's band. This opportunity allowed George to expand his musicality, and he became known for his impressive ability to scat and sing complicated bebop melodies. While working as a trainman / conductor for NJT Rail and with Moody for nearly a decade becoming an internationally recognized jazz vocalist.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, George continued to carve his own path. He collaborated with a myriad of artists and worked on various projects, always staying true to his love for jazz. In 2008, he founded Jazz in Washington DC, bringing together jazz musicians from all over the world to his beloved home city.

Today, George V Johnson Jr. remains a symbol of passion and perseverance in the world of jazz. His contributions have made him a vital figure in preserving and promoting the jazz culture in Washington D.C. and around the world. Despite the obstacles he encountered along the way, George's story is an enduring testament to the power of music, determination, and love for one's roots.

Mentors, Recordings & Stages

His career spans over 50 years. After 3 years of close guidance and mentorship in 1977, he was named heir apparent and Next In LIne by the Father of Vocalese Eddie Jefferson,   He has shared the stage with many jazz giants including James Moody,  Lou Donaldson, Dizzy Gillespie, Wallace Roney, Bobby Watson, Benny Golson, Rodney Whitaker, Jimmy Heath, Buck Hill, Marcus Belgrave, Cliff Monear and more. 

His first self produced CD Next In LIne begins with a 16 second sound bite by Eddie Jefferson proclaiming him "Next in Line," featuring: Herman Foster and Arnold Sterling 

George was privileged to make his recording debut with the legendary Pharoah Sanders on the LP "Rejoice" in 1981 featuring original lyrics to John Coltrane's Classic Moments Notice. Since retiring from New Jersey Transit Rail as a train conductor in 2012, Johnson's career is on the move. Washington City Paper 2016 Best Vocalist of the Year. His recent tours and performances include 2017 Detroit Jazz Festival "Hank's Symphony", Steinway Jazz Cafe * Chicago Jazz Showcase, Denmark, Israel, Parma Italy, Atlanta, North Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey, Jazz Mobile New York, Philadelphia, Montenegro with Madeinnyintl Jazz All-Stars performance for President Filip Vujanovic, Charlie Parker Celebration * Blue Room American Jazz Museum and the DC Jazz Festival at the National Gallery of the Art Sculpture Gardens entertaining more than 16,000 fans. 

He has produced "MONK" starring 5 time Adelco Award winning Actor Rome Neal @ Blair Mansions, Black Angels Over Tuskegee by Layon Gray @ Navy Memorial Museum, TUNISIA by Smokey Stevens and more..

Writing Lyrics to Hank Mobley

In 2003, George V Johnson Jr. was commissioned by Don Sickler of Second Floor Music to pen lyrics to the music of jazz legend and saxophonist, Hank Mobley. Since taking on the project Johnson has skillfully, completed over 40 of Mobley’s classic compositions and still counting. Some with complete solo’s. Critics are already saying this is one of the most important and extensive projects to be presented to the public from the jazz vocalese realm in many, many years. With Jazz Vocalese, still in a state of infancy.

An Archived Liner-Note Tribute

GEORGE V JOHNSON JR., whose marvelous lyrics and viocal work are truly auspicous! He sngs with James Moody on ocassion and is happily remindflul of the insistent giftness of the late EDDIE JEFFERSON. Johnson’s three stanzars close with ”Relax dig the sounds of Coltrane’s Music. Coltrane fills your heart with love and harmony. Trane played with magic. Listen to the melodies and you will see momently. When you here the message of his song!”. There’s no doubt in my mind that henceforth George V Johnson should and will be sought for his own gift to the music. 

He sang the song for Sanders at the Village Vanguard, and Sanders “felt that George ought to be heard”.

Thank you, Pharoah Sanders for your spirit of sharing! Wheeeeee....what a dynamite track this is~~~~HERBIE WONG 

With his extraordinary talent, dedication to his craft, and commitment to artistic integrity, George V Johnson Jr continues to make waves in the music world. His music touches the hearts and souls of listeners, solidifying his position as a true musical force to be reckoned with. As he continues to evolve and create, there is no doubt that George's impact on the music industry will endure for years to come.

Ghana Projects · Listen to the Music · Concert Bookings

Performance Repertoire & Ensemble Archive

The following original promotional description is preserved from the former booking page. It records the featured musicians, repertoire and performance links; it is historical material, and does not promise a future lineup or performance date.

Book the smooth, soulful and unique voice of George V Johnson Jr and his amazing band as they deliver the perfect blend of contemporary jazz, classic bebop, and funky grooves. Elijah Easton (sax), Donvonte McCoy (trumpet), Allyn Johnson (piano), Herman Burney (bass), and Dana-j Hawkins (drums) This ensemble brings a perfect balance of dynamics while breathing new life into each classic, iconic tune. George has perfect command of his jazz vocabulary, which is not surprising since, he was mentored by the best, the Grand Pop of vocalese, Eddie Jefferson, and James Moody. Eddie even claimed George was the next in-line for sheer skill and dominance in jazz vocals. https://youtu.be/FNbljpbyLtc It’s like having a “Magic Jukebox” that plays all the best tunes and in the right order too. It will be an unforgettable evening of music and ORIGINAL lyrics to Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, John Coltrane, Shirley Horn, George Cables, Hank Mobley, Wes Montgomery, Charlie Parker, Joe Henderson, Lou Donaldson, Miles Davis, Cannonball Adderly and more... All Aboard The Gravy Train https://youtu.be/5r5IksNKL8U

Discuss a Current Concert Booking · Read the Complete Eddie Jefferson Reminiscence