Lead vocalist and founder of the British band The The, known for his poetic and often provocative lyrics, and eclectic blend of post-punk and art rock sounds.
Matt Johnson, the enigmatic lead vocalist and sole constant member of the critically acclaimed band The The, has been leaving an indelible mark on the music industry since the late 1970s. With his eclectic style, poetic lyrics, and genre-defying sound, Johnson has garnered a devoted following and earned widespread critical acclaim.
Born on August 15, 1961, in east London, Johnson grew up in a creative family, surrounded by music and art. His youth was spent in and around the Two Puddings, a London pub run by his family for over 40 years. This unique upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of independence and a rebellious spirit, which would later manifest in his music.
In 1979, Johnson placed an advert in NME, seeking like-minded fans of the Velvet Underground, the Residents, and Throbbing Gristle to form a band with him. This marked the inception of The The, a fluid entity that would evolve over the years, featuring a rotating cast of talented musicians. Johnson has described The The as "a fluid thing," where collaborators can come and go, allowing him to explore new sounds and ideas.
In 1981, Johnson released his debut studio album, Burning Blue Soul, under his own name, which was later re-released under The The moniker. This album showcased his unique blend of post-punk, new wave, and art rock, earning him recognition within the music underground.
Johnson's collaborations with other artists, such as Marc Almond of Soft Cell, further solidified his reputation as a visionary musician. His 1983 debut album with The The, Soul Mining, distributed by Sony Music, marked a significant commercial breakthrough, followed by the critically acclaimed Infected album in 1986, which reached number 14 in the UK Albums Chart.
In addition to his music, Johnson has explored other creative avenues, including film soundtrack composition and publishing. His publishing company, Fifty First State Press, and radio platform, Radio Cineola, reflect his passion for promoting independent artists and preserving cultural heritage.
A dedicated conservationist and local activist, Johnson has been involved in various environmental and social causes, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire positive change.
Throughout his career, Matt Johnson has defied categorization, pushing the boundaries of music, art, and activism. His influence can be seen in a wide range of genres, from alternative rock to electronic music, and his commitment to creative freedom and social responsibility has inspired generations of artists and fans alike.
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