User talk:Crystal Johnson
Multi-talented artist Crystal Johnson hails from Brooklyn, New York. Her musical career is rooted in the church where she developed her rich, soulful and intricate vocal abilities. Her formative years as a child were influenced by the musical prowess of her mother Carolyn Johnson-White, Uncle Sam Johnson, cousin and gospel great Darryl Coley, as well as Gene Scott and the late Professor Alfred White. Crystal was always in the mix of the entertainment industry and some of her mentors were the best musicians of all time such as Lonnie Smith, James Cleveland and Max Roach.
At the age of seven Crystal recorded with Pink Floyd and the award winning Institutional Children’s Choir. At age 11, she landed the original lead role of “Doris Winter” in the smash hit and gospel classic, “Mama I Want To Sing”. Soon after she performed in the much acclaimed opera, “Porgy and Bess”, a Shakespeare In The Park Production with the Lincoln Philharmonic Orchestra, starring Theresa Merritt. Crystal then made her debut at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on Broadway, in the original production of “Gospel at Colonus” starring Morgan Freeman.
Crystal’s musical career as a singer, songwriter, producer, vocal coach and entrepreneur has served her well. She has musically collaborated with the likes of Usher Raymond, Angie Stone and Anthony Hamilton. Crystal has also appeared on the soundtrack “Who’s The Man” performing the self written/produced song, “Lovin You”. Other collaborations include Mobb Deep’s classic, “Temperature’s Rising” and also Pete Rock and CL Smooth “I’ll Take You There”. Crystal worked with Dr. Dre on his multi-platinum “Chronic 2001” co-writing “The Message”, a composition featuring Mary J. Blige and Rell.
Egyptian Fusion Music, Crystal’s entertainment company, is inspired by world music. She blends the music of various cultures to create her unique style of R&B, Jazz, and Hip-Hop. “My music is from my soul…a story of my triumphs and pains. Taking elements, putting them all together and making one thing fantastic is greatness” quotes Crystal.
The Day Before Heaven, Crystal’s Forthcoming, self-produced CD is a statement of Crystal’s artistic and female independence; a diary of her life. You instantly feel her spirit and her positive energy will move you as you listen to her intensely mesmerizing and soulful voice on this new compilation of music.
A warrior of personal achievement, Crystal Johnson marches forward with great faith and tenacity to fulfill her destiny. Crystal has relocated to Atlanta Georgia where you can always find Crystal composing music in her home studio. She finds renewed strength as a single mother. She takes pleasure in cooking and entertaining for family and friends. Crystal is known amongst her friends as the Brooklyn-Chick with urban socialite appeal
Crystal is representing for the ‘grown and sexy’ women, the first generation of hip-hop. Her sophisticated presence, beguiling charm, and exceptional talent have earned her much praise and well deserved respect in the entertainment world, the kind that will give her continued staying power.