The Chicago-born guitarist began playing at age twelve. While spending some formative time in Memphis, he started playing gospel music at age thirteen. By age fourteen, Johnson was playing in R&B groups. Although Johnson's parents brought him up hearing the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Joe Williams, and other artists of that era, it was not until 1967 that Johnson was formally introduced to jazz by hearing guitarist Wes Montgomery. Having jazz legend, George Benson as an early mentor and friend has been a Godsend, says Johnson. "George guided me on how to approach the guitar as an instrument, and how to accept and develop my own identity as a guitarist, and as an artist. I will always be indebted to George Benson for his kindness, and his generosity to share his knowledge with me. Johnson's personality allows him to do the same with others. "You're The One," his recording debut for MCA/Impulse! achieved #1 status on both the Radio & Records NAC chart, and Contemporary Jazz chart for two months - a rare occurrence for a first recording. This recording also won a five star rating in Downbeat magazine, and was nominated for a Grammy. Johnson has recorded with Ramsey Lewis, Joe Williams, Vanessa Ruben, and Richie Cole. He has performed with Nancy Wilson, Marlena Shaw, Angela Bofil, Dizzy Gillespie, the Boston Pops, Sonny Stitt, Freddie Hubbard, Grover Washington Jr., Stanley Turrentine, Jimmy Smith, James Moody, David "Fathead" Newman, and many other great jazz artists.