Johnson Brothers History

Paul Johnson is undoubtedly one of the best voices you never heard. Often likened to Paul Rodgers in style. Known as "Ginty", this unassuming former miner packed the pubs and clubs of the UK since 1971, fronting various top rock bands. For almost two decades, as one half of red hot duo, The Johnson Brothers. House-full signs a regular sight. Alongside "brother" Keith Buck, close friend for over 40 years and ex-Martin Turner’s Wisbone Ash axe man. Vastly experienced, internationally acclaimed multi-instrumentalist.

The Johnson Brothers CD, "Out Of The Blue" is surprisingly the debut recording by a man who is quite simply, a world class vocalist. If you have seen him on stage, you’ll know. Take a listen to any one of the 15 tracks here, and you’ll surely agree. Recorded over a ten year span, a magnificent selection of The Johnson Brothers’ personal favourites, from an extensive repertoire of rockin’ classics − with light and shade from some beautifully crafted acoustic numbers too. Former MT’s Wishbone Ash drummer Rob Hewings, worked audio miracles in the studio. Seamlessly gluing the various vocals together, (recorded in many different places over a decade), with a myriad of overdubs, midnight oil and technical skill graft. A recording engineer’s nightmare. Rob and Keith dedicated the best part of nine months to bring this project to fruition, with stunning results. A small, but perfectly formed team of major league musicians − Keith’s close pals and colleagues − gave their skills free of charge. Building upon the solid foundation of Bucky’s magnificent playing, and Ginty’s powerful vocals. Additional professional friends and associates drafted in on a voluntary basis, to add the final pieces of the jigsaw, creating not only a great sounding, but also a great looking album. Sold in aid of two national cancer charities.


Ginty and Keith

Keith’s late father Cecil, lost his life to the terrible disease in Feb 2006. Then shockingly and literally out of the blue, Ginty was diagnosed with terminal cancer in January 2011. Plans for the duo to tour overseas were halted. The recording project then took on a new meaning and urgency. Both Ginty and Mr Buck senior, worked down the pit together in Measham. Macmillan helped Ginty and Keith’s father. It goes without saying, the 2nd charity to benefit is doing vital work to find a cure. After costs of printing and CD manufacture, 100% of the proceeds will be donated equally between the two charities. Ginty’s message is simple: "No sadness. No tears. Just remember the happy times we had in many places, and the making of new friends along the way. Enjoy these songs as much as we did playing them together."

Keith echoes his musical mate: "It is all about great music, great times and great memories. This CD absolutely captures the emotion of what we were about, our influences, our love of these songs, and the special bond we had as a duo and as friends." The Johnson Brothers played their first gig in March 1993, and their last ever gig on Sunday 23rd January 2011. Sadly, they have unplugged the gear forever, but they will always live on in these 15 wonderful tracks. Thanks for the memories boys.......

Journalist, Simon Redley. September 2011.