Johnny Mathis was born on September 30, 1935 in Gilmer, Texas as the fourth child of seven to his parents Clement and Mildred Mathis. He grew up in a musically inclined family, with his father being a singer and his mother playing the piano. Mathis discovered his own talent for singing at a young age and began performing in church and school choirs.
During high school, Mathis excelled both athletically and academically, earning four athletic letters. Despite his success in sports, his true passion lay in music. After graduating, he initially pursued a career in teaching and enrolled at San Francisco State University. However, his life took a different turn when he was discovered by Helen Noga, co-owner of the Black Hawk Club and The DownBeat Club.
Mathis signed a record deal with Columbia Records in the late 1950s and released his debut album, which featured his #1 hit "Chances Are." This song catapulted him to fame, and he went on to release numerous successful albums and singles throughout his career. Known for his smooth voice and romantic ballads, Mathis became a household name in the world of jazz and pop music.
In 2017, Mathis made headlines when he came out as gay in an interview with US Magazine. This revelation was met with support and admiration from fans and the music industry alike. Despite facing challenges and discrimination because of his sexuality, Mathis remained true to himself and continued to pursue his passion for music.
Throughout his career, Mathis has sold over 350 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. He has received numerous accolades for his contributions to music, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2003 Grammy Awards. Mathis' influence on the music industry is undeniable, and his timeless songs continue to enchant audiences around the world.
Johnny Mathis remains an iconic figure in the world of jazz and pop music, with a career that spans over six decades. His smooth voice and heartfelt performances have touched the hearts of millions of fans, cementing his status as a musical legend.