Matt Johnson, born on August 15, 1961 in London, England, is a renowned rock singer best known for founding and fronting the English alternative rock and post-punk band THE THE. His passion for music started at a young age, and by the time he was 15, he was already working as a tea boy at the famous film music publishers De Wolfe Music in London's Soho district. It was during this time that he began honing his musical skills and developing his unique sound.
Johnson's musical journey truly began when he founded THE THE, a band that would go on to achieve great success and critical acclaim. Known for their distinctive sound and thought-provoking lyrics, THE THE quickly gained a loyal following and solidified Johnson's reputation as a talented and innovative musician. In addition to his work with THE THE, Johnson also made a name for himself as a composer of film soundtracks through his company Cineola.
Aside from his musical endeavors, Johnson is also known for his work as an activist. He became the owner of the Fifty First State Press publishing company and is a founder member of the Save Shoreditch conservation group. His commitment to activism reflects his passion for making a positive impact on the world around him and using his platform to effect change.
Throughout his career, Johnson has lived and worked in various locations, including Gothenburg, Sweden, Spain, and New York City. Despite his busy schedule and global travels, he has always remained close to his family. Tragically, Johnson lost his brother, Andy Dog Johnson, in 2016. The loss of his brother deeply impacted Johnson and influenced his music and activism in profound ways.
While Johnson is best known as the driving force behind THE THE, he has also collaborated with a diverse range of musicians throughout his career. From Simon Fisher Turner to Johnny Marr, Neneh Cherry, Sinead O'Connor, Jools Holland, JG Thirlwell, Zeke Manyika, Earl Harvin, and many others, Johnson has worked with some of the most talented artists in the industry. His collaborations have resulted in iconic music that has left a lasting impact on the world of rock and beyond.
Overall, Matt Johnson's legacy as a rock singer, activist, and musician is one that continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world. His dedication to his craft, his commitment to activism, and his innovative approach to music have established him as a true icon in the industry.