Gospel, soul, folk, blues, funk and show tunes are just some of the styles in which Asheville native Datrian Johnson is immersed. A star at home and a first-call vocalist for some of music’s most accomplished artists, the singer’s body of work — both live performances and recordings — spans those genres and beyond.
On the eve of releasing his first solo album, The Medicine Cabinet, Johnson is sharing a bill with one of his favorite bands, English funk-jazz group the New Mastersounds, as the group bows out of public performance. Johnson will join the New Mastersounds for four dates on the Ta Ta for Now farewell tour, including a Tuesday, Nov. 11, stop at Asheville Music Hall.
Gospel roots
“I’ve been going to see them for years,” says Johnson of the New Mastersounds. When he told friends his plans to tour with the band, he adds, “They were like, ‘No flippin’ way!’”
Known locally as an expressive and authentic vocalist, Johnson is a key member of a number of regional acts, including The Fritz, Free Radio and more. With his own band, the Family Tree, Johnson has opened Asheville-area shows for big names like Eric Gales. But those accomplishments only scratch the surface of his artistry…