He was an outstanding musician admired by all Americans, regardless of social status, race, gender, etc. Thanks to his incredible talent in music, this native of Philadelphia remained in history for a lifetime. However, fame and a successful life did not come easily to this African American. The man went through a winding path, through insults and racial discrimination. Read more about the difficult but interesting story of the life and success of a popular US musician on philadelphiaski.com.
How did his path start?
Francis Johnson was born in Philadelphia on June 16, 1792. Before he started playing music professionally, he led a military and public dance orchestra, worked as a music teacher at school and performed at balls, parades, etc.
He became famous after getting into George Willig’s collection of songs.
By the 1820s, Francis was already quite famous. He was a headliner at dance events in Philadelphia. Once, a new musical instrument appeared in the city. It was a keyed bugle. It seemed it was impossible to play a single melody on it due to the complex technical scheme. However, nothing was impossible for Frank Johnson. In a short time, he learned to play it and achieved a special musical sound, which was later studied by many of the artist’s followers.
After several years of practice, the man from Pennsylvania became a well-known professional in playing a number of complex musical instruments, which were mastered only by talented musicians who loved their art.
Researchers of his work noted one remarkable moment from the memories of witnesses of that time. It happened during the performance of the author’s single called Philadelphia Fireman’s Quadrille on the bugle. The audience heard how he makes his instrument almost shout the word Fire.
His musical style was greatly influenced by a trip to England, where Johnson had the opportunity to perform for the Queen of Great Britain. Her Majesty liked his playing and even presented Frank with a silver bugle.
Returning to his native land, the artist presented the English motif. Americans liked the music and style of Frank Johnson and he became more than successful. He was compared to such legendary composers as Beethoven, Mozart, etc. Meanwhile, he not only gave performances but also passed on his experience to the younger generation. Thus, he taught many students from America and Europe.
Obstacles on the way and remarkable memories
Despite the prevalence of racial discrimination in those days, the American public supported Johnson, thanks to his perseverance and talent. Frank successfully competed with white musicians. The unique style of the creator enchanted the audience. He could write an incredible melody, and during the performance, he also improvised in such a way that the playing became even more atmospheric and refined.
An African-American composer achieved unprecedented success in the US, despite all the difficulties. Racial discrimination often became an obstacle but Frank did not give up. That is one of the reasons why we still talk about him.
He is remembered as a virtuoso of the bugle and the violin. The composer wrote more than 200 melodies of various styles. The most famous compositions of Francis Johnson are remembered by true connoisseurs of musical culture even today.
In addition, the historical sources state he was the first African-American whose works were published.
Thanks to the public concerts that the musician organized for the residents of American cities, it was possible to consolidate society. Listening to Frank Johnson, white people forgot about racial discrimination and stereotypes.
On April 6, 1844, Frank Johnson died. However, the heritage of the famous Philadelphia musician continued to live. The orchestra, which was named in honor of the artist, performed under this name for a long time. The new frontmen, Joseph Anderson Sr. and Henry Williams, tried to follow the traditions set by the creator.
