Photo: Jamey Johnson Music
Country Singer Songwriter Jamey Johnson talks National Memorial Day Concert 2024, His Return with a Stunning Tribute to Fallen Soldiers with '21 Guns' & Reflects on His Career
After nearly a decade-long hiatus from releasing new music, country musician Jamey Johnson has made a stirring comeback with his latest single, "21 Guns," a soulful homage to the armed forces' fallen heroes. In an exclusive interview on Pop Culture Weekly with Kyle McMahon, Johnson opens up about the inspiration behind the song and reflects on his own journey as a United States Marine and how it has shaped his music and character.
Johnson's love for music started early, singing in church choirs and carrying the tradition into his service in the United States Marines, where he would play gigs at local bars, connecting with fellow service members through music. His journey is a testament to the power of music as a unifier, transcending backgrounds and circumstances. It was during these formative years that Johnson not only honed his craft but also found his voice as a songwriter, one that would eventually resonate with millions.
During the interview, Johnson dives into his songwriting process, sharing how he transitioned from writing songs alone to navigating the collaborative nature of co-writing. The challenge of co-writing, as Johnson describes, is an art form of teamwork, where learning when to speak and when to listen is crucial to the creative process.
Johnson also candidly discusses the challenges of the music industry, the shift from being a general contractor to a full-time musician, and the decision to start his own record label for greater creative control. It's clear that Johnson's career is a journey of self-discovery, marked by a relentless pursuit of authenticity in his music.
Photo: Jamey Johnson Music
A Stunning Tribute with "21 Guns"
"21 Guns" is more than just a single; it's a tribute that hits very close to home for Johnson. As a veteran himself, he has a profound understanding of the sacrifices made by military personnel, and his song is a salute to their bravery. The anticipation for his emotional performance at the 2024 National Memorial Day Concert on PBS is high, where he will stand among esteemed performers and actors such as Gary Sinise, Joe Mantegna and Cynthia Erivo, to honor those who have served. to honor those who have served.
Johnson's candid interview is not only a peek into the life of a musician but also an exploration of the evolution of an artist finding their true path. Johnson's return to music with "21 Guns" is a powerful reminder of his roots and the experiences that have shaped him as an artist. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the military and a melodic tribute to the heroes who have fallen. As summer 2024 approaches, Johnson's "21 Guns" is not just a song to add to playlists but an anthem that embodies heroism, harmony, and the enduring spirit of those who serve. It's a comeback that goes beyond the charts, touching the hearts of listeners and honoring the true heroes of our nation.
Listen to the full interview with Kyle McMahon and Jamey Johnson on the free iHeartRadio app here or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Check out Kyle McMahon and subscribe to the Pop Culture Weekly podcast. You can follow him on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram and check out his official Amazon Store.