Minister Johnson – What Will My Legacy Be?

Minister Johnson

Psalms Way Music Ministry Publishing 2009

www.theministerjohnsoncatalog.com

In October 2007, Lamont Johnson was sitting in the back row of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento, California, attending a Kevin Bond music clinic, when he received a life-changing message.  After observing the clinic for a while, Johnson recalled, “The Lord said [to me], ‘That’s what I want you to do.’  I said to the Lord, ‘I can’t do that.  I have no talent, I cannot sing, I can’t play an instrument.  I have nothing to offer.’  The Lord told me, ‘I gave you the gift of writing.’”

And that’s where it started.  Minister Johnson began to write music with the intention of recording his songs, but he could not find anyone to sing them.  Again the Lord intervened.  “The Lord showed me that the job and the gift that he had for me, it was for me.  It was my lack of confidence that kept me from moving forward.”

Two years later, Johnson released the aptly titled What Will My Legacy Be? Minister Johnson Catalog, Volume 1.  He handles the lead vocals, backed by a smooth-toned female vocal harmony group and quite capable musicians.  While the project showcases Johnson’s songwriting skills, he did not need to lack confidence; his mellow, soulful voice is more than up for the task. 

The nine-song recording infuses Johnson songs with California contemporary gospel, traditional, and urban AC-style inspirational musical backdrops.  Johnson’s sweet spot as a writer and singer, however, is the quiet ballad, where the piano is his main accompaniment and the vocals are so intimate that he is basically having a musical conversation with the audience.  Three selections – “Are You Ready,” the intro to “It’s Your Time to Shine” and the title track — benefit from this singular arrangement.

Of all the songs on the CD, the title track packs the biggest punch.  Here, Johnson ponders how he will be remembered after his own passing.  Will enemies “scandalize my name,” or will friends testify that I was “a servant of God?”  Possessing a soulful quartet feel, this is a song any male lead could wrap his chops around.

What Will My Legacy Be? is a pleasant, enjoyable debut for Minister Johnson, and it sounds as if Volume 2 is already on the burners.

gPod Picks:  “What Will My Legacy Be,” “Are You Ready.”

Reviewed by Bob Marovich for The Black Gospel Blog.