James P. Johnson

Jazz Singer

Birthday February 1, 1894

Birth Sign Aquarius

Birthplace New Jersey

DEATH DATE Nov 17, 1955 (61)

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About

Best known for The Charleston and If I Could Be With You (One Hour Tonight). He contributed much to the development of ragtime and jazz.

Before Fame

He started out as a pianist in summer resorts, theatres, films, and nightclubs.

Trivia

He was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970.

Family Life

He moved with his family to San Juan Hill in New York City in 1908.

Associated With

He grew up listening to Scott Joplin.