RALPH JOHNSON
Ralph Johnson is a musical wonder. In a remarkable career that has spanned over 50 years, Ralph has achieved unparalleled success as a drummer, songwriter, vocalist, and principal member of the iconic group Earth, Wind & Fire. His dynamic stage presence has electrified sold-out audiences around the world, and he’s inspired future generations of musicians and young people to follow their dreams and be a global citizen.
With Earth, Wind & Fire, Ralph’s artistry has been celebrated with seven Grammy Awards, including one for Lifetime Achievement, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a portrait in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor, acknowledging his contributions to arts and culture. Always looking forward with a burning passion to create, Ralph is now releasing a stunning new smooth jazz fusion EP titled "Notes From An Ascended Being". The infectious grooves and refreshing melodies take listeners on a musical journey.
The EP is the first in a partnership with House Studios, an impact driven multimedia and connection platform that will launch later this year. House Studios mission is to help solve the world’s most pressing issues by liberating, empowering and celebrating creativity. Ralph will be a “torchbearer” for the platform. Music has always been part of Ralph’s life. He remembers watching The Johnny Otis Show, a local variety show, and patting his hands together to various beats. Recognizing his talent, his father bought him a pair of drumsticks, which soon lead to a drum and drum lessons. When Ralph was a teenager in Inglewood, Ca., he watched the Forum being built and dreamed of one day playing the arena. A few years later, his dream became reality.
In 1972, Ralph joined musical genius Maurice White’s group Earth, Wind & Fire. With songs like “Shining Star,” “Let’s Groove” and “September,” Earth, Wind & Fire’s music catalog of singles and albums has tallied over 100 million streams and sales worldwide, forever changing the history of music. Ralph’s solo music has also garnered much acclaim. His 2018 Top 40 single “Aura (Embrace Your Light),” featuring Siedah Garret and fellow Earth, Wind & Fire member Verdine White, won a Hollywood Music in Media Award. He’s produced and performed with some of the biggest artists in the industry. His work can be heard on such albums as Howard Hewett’s Christmas and If Only, Audio Caviar’s Transoceanic and the Temptations’ Truly For You, as well as their hit single “Treat Her Like a Lady.” His songwriting skills gained the attention of JayZ and Keyshia Cole, who each sampled his songs “Sounds Like a Love Song,” “Song Cry” and “You’ve Changed.”
Ralph’s passion and commitment to his craft remains just as steadfast as when he first began. This summer he will travel the U.S. with Earth, Wind & Fire as they join forces with Santana. Whether it’s performing, composing or philanthropy, Ralph has proven to be a mighty element. An ascended being, indeed.
CONNECT WITH RALPH JOHNSON ONLINE! Facebook: @RalphJohnsonEWF Twitter: @RalphJohnsonEWF Instagram: @ralph_johnson.ewf
*DOWNLOAD AND STREAM HIS NEW RELEASE "SMOOTH AND YOU" - AVAILABLE NOW ON ALL LEADING DIGITAL MUSIC PLATFORMS.
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