She began playing the piano at five, learned the clarinet, flute and saxophone while in high school, then later accomplished the mandolin and guitar. Johnson also focused on singing and songwriting. At just 24 she moved to Nashville and performed anywhere she could while earning a living tending bar and waiting tables. Her songwriting earned her a reliable name in Nashville, and membership in Martina McBride's band on a 1999 tour. While touring she managed to record the single "Georgia," which quickly landed on the Billboard charts. Johnson continues to write music for other artists, including SheDaisy, Pam Tillis, Kathy Mattea and Patty Loveless. Her 1999 hit "Single White Female," co-written with Chely Wright, earned her a Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year Award from the 2000 Music Row Awards. Johnson's Room With a View was released this year 2001.
|